CEDAR RAPIDS — After more than four decades “playing in the water,” Cedar Rapids Utilities Director Roy Hesemann is hoping his upcoming retirement is nothing but smooth sailing.
Hesemann has become a staple at city meetings where he offers a calm presence, years of experience and the occasional wry joke. As utilities director, he oversees a department responsible for critical public services including the water division and solid waste management.
His last day is slated for Sept. 4, just two months shy of his 27th year with the city. His role will be filled by Lauren Michael, who most recently served as plant manager of the city’s water pollution control facility…