James Kinzler is retiring after serving the city for 25 years. A special presentation was held to honor Deputy City Manager James Kinzler at the city council meeting on February 25.
James Kinzler Dedicated Half His Life Serving the City of Clermont
On March 14, 1995, when the city’s population was well under 10,000, James began working for the city of Clermont as a water and wastewater operator.
While working for the city, James completed his bachelor of science degree in business administration in 1996 from the University of Central Florida. And in 1998, he was promoted to water and wastewater treatment specialist and then to supervisor.
After earning several certifications and licenses, he was promoted to Utilities Superintendent in 2003. Shortly after, in 2004, he was named Assistant Utilities Director. In 2008, James became Utilities Director, and in 2011, he was promoted to Environmental Services Director.
He spent 3-and-a-half years as director of one of the largest departments in the city where he oversaw the city’s water, wastewater, sanitation, stormwater and water conservation services.
James helped establish the city’s process for creating reclaimed water and using it for irrigation. This created a new revenue source while reducing environmental impact. He was instrumental in building a new wastewater plant in the early 2000s, which won statewide recognition and has helped secure a sustainable wastewater plan for Clermont’s future, as well as finding alternative water sources.
James was promoted to Assistant City Manager in 2015 and to Deputy City Manager in 2019. He has helped lead Lake County’s largest city through an exciting time of population growth and booming business.
“He worked diligently by my side to help make the City’s award-winning downtown-waterfront master plan a reality. He helped lead the way from planning to adoption and implementation of the master plan. He oversaw projects including Victory Pointe, Kehlor Recreation Center, the Boat Ramp and our streetscapes and has been heavily involved in the City’s growth plans in Wellness Way”, said City Manager Darren Gray.
Clermont has earned numerous awards during his time with the City, including Best Central Florida City to Live In, Best Central Florida City To Launch A New Business and Top 20 American Cities Leading The Way In Economic Development And Quality of Life.
“I could always count on him to step up and help out in times of need. No request was too big or small. Thus, he didn’t hesitate to serve as interim director of public works and of parks and recreation. He truly has been my right hand. He is a true Clermont Champion”, said Gray.
