SE Missouri News

Michael Woods has been tapped to take over for retiring Keith Francis on March 20, 2023. He is working alongside current Director Francis for the next few weeks to help ensure a smooth transition. 

Woods started at the City of Branson in 2021 as the Assistant Civil Engineer in the Public Works/Engineering Department. He was then made Acting Director of the Planning and Development as well as Assistant Engineer where he has been serving dual capacities. 

“Michael stepped up when we needed him. He has worked incredibly hard with an immense workload. I appreciate the work he has done in the Planning Department and am excited to see what he does in the Public Works/Engineering Department,” said Branson Mayor, Larry Milton. 

“Michael's positive energy is infectious. He has a keen eye for organizational and system improvements with strong leadership abilities. Leading Public Works/Engineering is the logical next step for him and the City of Branson,” said City Administrator Cathy Stepp.

“I am very excited to join the Branson Public Works/Engineering team as we continue to design, build, operate and maintain a safe and reliable infrastructure system,” said Michael Woods. “It’s truly an honor to serve the community, visitors, and staff. I can’t wait to see what we will accomplish together,” Woods said. 

As Public Works/Engineering Director, Woods is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the City’s infrastructure, streets, and city buildings as well as storm sewer maintenance, winter weather operations and city vehicle and equipment maintenance. As part of the engineering division, he is responsible for traffic, in house engineering designs and numerous capital projects. 

Before coming to Branson, Woods worked at the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDot) and before that worked for City Utilities Water Division and the City of Springfield Public Works Department. He has a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology and has a professional engineering license in the State of Missouri. 

Original source can be found here.