Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington has announced a significant leadership change within its Public Works Department. Joe VanDeventer, who has served as the Director of Street Operations since 2014, will assume the newly appointed role of Deputy Director of Public Works on January 1, 2026. The appointment was confirmed by the City of Bloomington Common Council during the 2026 budget hearings, formalizing the creation of this key position.
Public Works Director Adam Wason expressed strong confidence in VanDeventer’s capabilities and leadership. “Joe is the perfect person for this role in the Department, having several years of dedicated leadership to the City have prepped him well for this larger role,” Wason said. “Joe is respected by his teammates and peers, and we’re lucky to have him take on this new position.”
A seventh-generation Monroe County resident, VanDeventer brings more than two decades of leadership experience in public works and local government operations. His long-standing involvement in the community extends beyond city work, as he has been an active contributor to organizations such as the Indiana Farm Bureau and 4-H of Monroe County, among numerous other local initiatives. His deep ties to the region and understanding of its infrastructure needs make him a familiar and trusted figure both within the City and in the broader community.
In his new role, VanDeventer will assist with the overall administration of the Public Works Department, with direct oversight of the Fleet, Sanitation, and Street Divisions. The Deputy Director will also assume the Director’s responsibilities whenever Wason is unavailable, ensuring continuity and leadership across the Department’s multiple operational areas. This expanded responsibility positions VanDeventer as a central figure in the City’s ongoing efforts to maintain and improve essential municipal services.
Since joining the City, VanDeventer has been instrumental in implementing strategies that enhance street maintenance, fleet management, and sanitation operations. His experience managing complex projects, coordinating teams, and engaging with community stakeholders has been a defining factor in his promotion. Colleagues describe him as approachable, strategic, and highly committed to both his work and the community he serves.
The creation of the Deputy Director role reflects Bloomington’s continued commitment to strengthening leadership within Public Works and supporting efficient city operations. By ensuring the department has a dedicated second-in-command, the City aims to enhance operational oversight, improve response times, and maintain high standards across all divisions.
VanDeventer’s appointment has been welcomed by staff and community members alike, who see his promotion as a natural progression for a leader with proven experience and deep roots in the region. “We are confident that Joe will bring the same dedication and strategic focus to this new role as he has to all of his previous work in Public Works,” Wason added.
As he prepares to assume his duties in January, VanDeventer said he looks forward to continuing to serve the residents of Bloomington while supporting the Department’s mission to provide reliable, efficient, and sustainable public services. His promotion represents both an acknowledgment of his past contributions and a forward-looking commitment to the future of Bloomington’s infrastructure and public works operations.
