A 25-year public works veteran will be Newton’s next director of public works.

Water/Wastewater Superintendent Ed Bonham, who has worked for the City for 12 years, will take over for Suzanne Loomis, who is retiring in March.

“This new role is an exciting opportunity I am looking forward to,” Bonham said. “Suzanne has been a great leader and mentor to me. She has been the ultimate professional and has put many things in place to help with the transition. She is leaving some giant shoes to fill. I wish her the best in her new adventurers, and I am looking forward to the new opportunities ahead of me in this servant leadership-focused organization.”

Bonham has over 25 years of experience in public works, including serving in Newton as water/wastewater superintendent and public works special project manager. He also served as the assistant authority manager for the Plum Creek Water Reclamation Authority in Castle Rock, Colorado, and as public works superintendent for the City of Rose Hill.

Bonham has a bachelor’s degree in organized management and leadership (HR) and a master’s degree in environmental science, both from Friends University.

City Manager Daniela Rivas described Bonham as highly qualified to lead the department.

“Through Ed’s education, experience, hard work, and passion for learning, he has developed a tremendous skillset in the public works realm,” Rivas said. “Ed has already proven himself as a leader with a devotion to public service as our utility superintendent. He has earned the respect of his coworkers and will continue to serve our organization and community well in his new position as public works director.”

Bonham will oversee the City’s street, sanitation, water, wastewater, park and cemetery, building maintenance, engineering and code enforcement operations.

As director of public works, Suzanne Loomis has also served as city engineer. After her retirement, the position will be split, and Assistant City Engineer Chris Ciardella will be promoted to city engineer.