City of Grand Junction Public Works Manager Darren Starr will be retiring after 36 years of service with the organization on January 8. Darren started his career as a part-time employee in March, 1983, transitioning to full time the following year as a finance clerk after earning a degree from Mesa State College.
With a strong financial analytical background, Darren was asked to take over the Solid Waste Manager position in 1989. In 2008, Darren began managing the Streets and Stormwater Divisions of the organization. Starr’s tenure also included an 11-month stint as Two Rivers Convention Center Manager position in 2011.
In reflecting on his career, Darren noted, “My best day on the job was really any day where Public Works provided service safely, on time, and no complaints - that’s a good day.”
Darren was responsible for many reliable services of the Public Works Department including picking up over 3,500 containers of trash every day, clearing streets from snow, two weeks of Spring Cleanup, eight weeks of leaf pickup every Fall, and three months of street maintenance every year.
Public Works Director Trent Prall added, “Darren’s dedication to public service is evidenced by his commitment to delivering services to our residents over a long career. Darren has contributed a great deal to our community since he started with the organization and his legacy will include his work ethic and dedication to the City. His presence will be missed, and I know I speak for the organization in wishing Darren an extremely well-earned and fulfilling retirement.”
Contact: Greg LeBlanc, Sr. Assistant to the City Manager | 970-244-1557 or gregoryl@gjcity.org