Long Serving Otter Tail County Engineer Retiring

Otter Tail County (KDLM) – Richard West, Otter Tail County’s long serving County Engineer, is retiring from Otter Tail County.

West, began his career with Otter Tail County 30 years ago as the County Engineer. Tasked early in his career to plan and carry out highway projects he dedicated his career to planning, sustaining, and improving the infrastructure in Otter Tail County.

“In my career here, under Rick’s supervision, he always brought a big picture perspective. He has always been encouraging and supportive of our work,” said Chris McConn, Otter Tail County Solid Waste Director. “Rick’s personality, experience, and rapport cannot be replaced. It is something that will need to be built from the ground up by someone with a special personality. We will all miss Rick.”

West has earned several awards including the David P. Brand Safety Award, given to those that demonstrate the highest standards in public safety over their career; the National Association of County Engineers Rural County Engineer of the Year; and among others, the Minnesota Towards Zero Death Star Award. In addition to his primary role as County Engineer, he has been responsible throughout his career for administering long range planning and development, project evaluation, and safety assessment.

Nicole Hansen, Otter Tail County Administrator, recognized West at the Board of Commissioner’s meeting recently, “Thank you for your outstanding public service and commitment to residents and visitors through thoughtful leadership. You have earned the respect of county officials, colleagues, and engineers both state and nationwide.”

Brian S. Giese, President of the Minnesota County Engineers Association on behalf of his professional association, presented West with a proclamation stating, “we express our sincere appreciation to Rick for a lifetime of dedicated public service, and wish him much happiness as he begins this new chapter in his life.” Tuesday, May 25, 2021 was declared Richard K. West Day in the State of Minnesota, and Giese called upon all county engineers to join in congratulating Rick for his meritorious service, and the loyalty and dedication he has rendered to the profession.