Last night Jasper Utilities General Manager Bud Hauersperger told the city’s Utility Services board opening bids for the demolition and possible purchase of the former Jasper power plant will be opened during a special gathering February 24th at 8 am in the council chambers of Jasper City Hall.
Hauersperger also mentioned was that their will be a special utility board meeting taking place during that time.
With no further items up for discussion, Hauersperger also announced the resignation of Ernie Hinkle as the city’s Gas & Water Manager and will begin the process of seeking his replacement.
The Board approved to launch a search for Hinkle’s successor prior to his retirement which will be effective at the end of May.
With 30 years of service under his belt, Hinkle decide that the time was right to step down from a position he took over after the retirement of Mike Oeding in 2013.
Hinkle’s wife Beth has been with the city for over 37 years herself. She currently serves as the assistant director of the Arnold F. Habig Center. The couple have 3 daughters and a son.
Hinkle is a 1972 graduate of Jasper High School and has lived in Jasper all his life with the exception of a 2 year stint in the Air Force.
Hinkle started out as a laborer, worked his way up to crew chief, assistant foreman, foreman, assistant manager and than finally manager of the Gas & Water utility.
Hinkle says as he reflects on his various job capacities he also has observed transitions of government protocol and activity on dealing with the utility sector.
Hinkle said that with the experience he has gained in his role, he is honored and privileged to have served the city on both the board and his various positions.
The board allowed Hauersperger to find an assistant manager in order to make a transition into the position when Hinkle’s retirement takes effect in May.
Hauersperger says likely they will look within the department.
