Wirts receives 2026 Water Operator of the Year award

"I've got an old saying: I get a lot more done with sugar than you can with salt and I take that attitude toward the community. I will help anybody that needs help ..." Water and Sewer Supervisor Kyle Wirts told the Democrat. One of California's own, Wirts is officially the 2026 Water Operator of the Year, according to The Missouri Rural Water Association (MRWA). According to a release from MRWA, Wirts received the award from the organization during its fall conferences, which were held from Oct. 20-23 at the Wyndham Executive Center in Columbia. The conference unites "water and wastewater professionals, utility office personnel, exhibitors, consultants, and industry partners" and drew 107 office professionals, 321 water and wastewater operators, 188 exhibitors and 16 participants in Board and Council training to its proceedings. Wirts and his family were some of the many in attendance.

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