West Des Moines Water Works Investigation Was Beyond Scope of Tower Issues

West Des Moines Water Works trustees are saying little about an investigation authorized in a closed meeting earlier this summer and whether it relates to the abrupt resignation last week of Water Works general manager Jerry Stevens.

Brian Rickert, a member of the Board of Trustees, confirmed that an investigation was authorized after a June 18 closed session an investigation in concurrence with the recommendations of the Personnel and Hiring Committee.

He said that because the investigation concerns a personnel issue, he can’t reveal the details of the scope of that investigation, the name of the company conducting it, whether it is ongoing or what employee it concerned. Rickert said the investigation is not a criminal matter.

Stevens offered his resignation in a special closed-door meeting last week, but did not give reasons.

Bill Garrett, the waterworks assistant general manager, is running the utility until a replacement can be named. A national search will take place, Rickert said.

Rickert said the investigation authorized in June is not related to a probe by the Stanley Consultants engineering firm regarding the operability of a water tower on 88th Street. Concerns have been raised that the tower, completed two years ago, may not be tall enough to adequately meet pressure demands in the area. The tower has been offline since its completion.

A report from Stanley is expected in about a month.