We are proud to announce that Eagan Public Works Director, Russ Matthys was named one of the Top Ten Public Works Leaders of the Year by the American Public Works Association (APWA). The APWA is the largest Public Works organization in the United States with over 30,000 members.
In its 64th year, this award is one of APWA’s highest honors and is based on a lifetime of professional contributions. According to APWA, recipients of the awards are chosen by past Top Ten recipients and embody professionalism, expertise, and personal dedication to improving the quality of life in their communities through the advancement of public works services and technology.
Last November, Matthys was also honored with the APWA’s Minnesota Chapter’s award for years of superior service to the organization and their peers.
In every successful city, there is a team of leaders who shoulder the responsibility of guiding and shaping its future. Eagan's leaders play a crucial role in driving excellence and fostering an inclusive, thriving community and workspace. Our leaders work tirelessly to ensure the overall well-being and progress of Eagan. We are lucky to have Russ Matthys as one of these leaders in Eagan.
Matthys has worked in public works for 33 years. Twenty-five of those years have been for the City of Eagan, with 10 and a half as director of public works. As the public works director, Matthys oversees the overall administration and management of the Public Works Department. He ensures the streets, infrastructure systems, lakes, and facilities are planned, installed, and maintained in an economically and environmentally responsible manner to effectively meet the needs and the welfare of the community.
Matthys says one of his biggest accomplishments as a public works director has been managing nearly a billion dollars worth of City assets. Matthys’ contribution to the City has made those assets more efficient, operative, and economical. “The most exciting part of my job is knowing I get to help our residents by enhancing their quality of life,” Matthys said. “My goal is to help make Eagan a community where everyone thrives through accessibility — to roads, walkways, and trails, to healthy and safe water, and to infrastructure that supports our residents and businesses. And I want to do so while serving the needs of today, but also ensuring our community’s success for future generations.”
“We at the City of Eagan appreciate all Russ does for our community,” City Administrator Dianne Miller said. “This is a well-deserved award — Russ has worked tirelessly to make our operations and services more efficient and effective. And every day we see how he invests his time into our people, best practices, and growing the public works profession to help empower and build the next generation of public servants to keep all of our communities strong.”
“The City is proud to have Russ as one of our countless teammates who go above and beyond to serve our community each and every day,” Mayor Mike Maguire said. “To be frank, this award doesn’t surprise me, because I see Russ’ enthusiasm for the work he does, and how he inspires his entire team to make sure our public infrastructure works for our residents, businesses, and those who play here in Eagan.”
Congrats, Russ! We are proud to have you as a member of #TeamEagan!
