Bethlehem seeks new department commissioner
The director of one of the Town of Bethlehem’s biggest departments will be taking his leave in a few weeks.
Commissioner of the Department of Public Works Josh Cansler will be relocating across the ocean for a Department of Defense job heading the Department of Public Works at NATO bases in the Netherlands. It closely resembles his previous position of DPW director at a military base in Germany, a post he held during his 21 years in the Army.
Bethlehem’s a great town, I love this town, and I’d love to stay here and live here for a while, but the opportunity to go to the Netherlands and see a new part of the world was too good to pass up, Cansler said.
His new posting will be a civilian position. His last day with the town will be Sept. 9.
Cansler has headed Bethlehem’s DPW for four years. A department of 60 positions, it’s responsible for the town’s water, sewer and engineering needs. The outgoing commissioner said he’s pleased with what the department has accomplished during his tenure.
`The biggest thing obviously was getting the water distribution system consolidated into one system…ultimately that’s going to save taxpayers a lot of money,` Cansler said. `We’ve also managed to cut the budget quite a bit since I’ve been here, get us more on an even keel and get us closer to matching our revues.`
Members of the Town Board praised Cansler’s performance at a recent meeting.
`On behalf of the town… I want to thank you for the work you’ve done here,` Supervisor Sam Messina said. `You’ve been a great partner working with the board and your staff.`
Deputy Commissioner of Public Works Erik Deyoe will be taking over as interim commissioner when Cansler leaves. The town is accepting applications for the position, which is appointed every year by the Town Board.
For details on the position and to apply, visit the town’s website at www.townofbethlehem.org. The deadline for applications is Sept. 15, at which time the board will review the candidates.
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