Former NACWA President Kevin Shafer is profiled in the September issue of Milwaukee Magazine where he tells the story of how NACWA member agency the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) worked to repair its image with its customers and stakeholders.  

Shafer, who served as NACWA President from 2009-2010, discusses the transformation of MMSD, from a “pariah” to a utility “that appears to be doing almost everything right.” 

“MMSD is held up within the water industry, both nationally and globally, as among the best of the best,” Dean Amhaus, president and CEO of The Water Council, told the magazine. “And really, Kevin is seen as a visionary. … It’s about time he gets the recognition that is due to him.” 

Shafer joined MMSD in 1998, just a few years removed from the utility being embroiled in a legal battle with suburban jurisdictions. After taking the helm in 2002, Shafer began his mission of shifting MMSD’s public perception.  

“I think what I’m most proud of is that change in perception," Shafer said. "We’re now looked at as a protector of water as opposed to a polluter of water. 

The article, which can be read here, is an wonderful example of how clean water utilities can become recognized as critical anchor institutions by the communities they serve and valued for the environmental and public health protections they provide.  

 Members with questions may contact Rahkia Nance, NACWA's Director of Communications.