Long-time infrastructure director retires

By Rob Vogt
After 27 years with the Town of Claresholm and 21 in a managerial position, the town’s director of infrastructure services has retired.
Town council, staff, family and friends gathered at the Bridges at Claresholm Golf Club on Thursday, April 6 to bid a fond farewell to Mike Schuweiler.
Abe Tinney, the town’s chief administrative officer, brought best wishes from the town.
He congratulated Schuweiler on his service and shared some observations from the year and a half he has known Schuweiler.
Tinney appreciated Schuweiler’s knowledge of town infrastructure; policies; bylaws; and procedures and processes.
“He will be sorely missed,” Tinney said.
This knowledge and experience was important in the transition from one chief administrative officer to another.
Tinney said local government lives in a changing world and, through his leadership, Schuweiler has been a constant through that change.
“I think that’s something that should be recognized,” he said.
Tinney pointed out Schuweiler should also be recognized for his commitment to the town and all those years he was on call.
He demonstrated total professionalism.
“He has always responded to my requests promptly and completed work and provided recommendations to a high standard,” Tinney said. “This speaks to his work ethic.”
“Mike has been very trustworthy and loyal,” he later added.
Tinney then shared some thoughts from staff members who worked with Schuweiler.
One said Schuweiler had the town’s best interest in mind; would go out of his way to please people; was good at solving problems without costing the down extra funds; encouraged the upgrading of town infrastructure; always made sure the town had good equipment to make jobs easier for staff; and has a great work ethic.
Another staff member commended Schuweiler’s devotion to this town. His love for the community guided his actions every day. He contributed so much to this community from being a driving force behind the Millennium Ball Diamonds to the constant infrastructure upgrades that were always focused on future growth. He will be missed but his contributions will be a constant reminder.
Tinney also paid tribute to Colleen Schuweiler, Mike’s wife, who was always there. She too was presented with a token of gratitude.
Lisa Chilton then brought greetings from the town staff.
“He has been nothing but respectful at the town office,” she said.
Staff some times take nasty calls, but Schuweiler was always there.
“Don’t worry about it, I’ll handle it,” he would say.
“And he did,” Chilton said. “He helped us so much.”
Deputy Mayor Brad Schlossberger brought best wishes from town council.
He noted the job is demanding and can take its toll but Schuweiler created the best town crew ever. Now he’s on to retirement and the next stage of his life.
“Congratulations Mike, you deserve it,” Schlossberger said.