Water Authority Hires Michael Dirks as New Superintendent

The Effingham Water Authority has hired Michael Dirks as the new Lake Sara Superintendent following the upcoming retirement of Gene Arnold.

EWA Trustee Chair Chris Kabbes said, "We look forward to having Mike come on board and continue the tradition of making Lake Sara a beautiful asset to the Effingham area."

Dirks is an Effingham native who served on active duty in the Air Force as a Security Forces member, earning the rank of Senior Airman.  He attended SIU Carbondale and earned a bachelor's degree in Forestry Resource Management.  Upon graduation, he accepted a job as a Forester for Cole Logging, Inc.  In July 2011, he accepted the job of District Executive for the De Soto Area Council, Boy Scouts of America in El Dorado, Arkansas.

Mike and wife Sarah have been married for three years.

Dirks will begin his duties on April 15.  Arnold announced his retirement several months ago, allowing trustees time to complete a search for his successor.