WESTPORT – First Selectman Kevin Christie has accepted the retirement of Westport Public Works Director Peter Ratkiewich, effective Aug. 31.
“It is with regret that I accept Pete’s retirement letter,” said First Selectman Christie. “The Town of Westport has been extremely fortunate to benefit from his expertise and knowledge for more than 36 years. Under his leadership, and among many other accomplishments, the town has maintained and improved its infrastructure, roadways, engineering capabilities, and equipment; strengthened coordination with public utilities and the State of Connecticut; and successfully managed numerous emergency response efforts during major storms impacting our community.”
Ratkiewich has served the Town of Westport since 1989. He was hired as deputy town engineer and assumed the role of town engineer in October 2008. In that capacity, he supervised the Engineering Department and oversaw the design and administration of municipal infrastructure projects, including sanitary sewers, storm drains, refuse and recycling facilities, highway maintenance, parking lots, and roadway and intersection improvements.
“Since 2018, when he seamlessly transitioned into his role as director, Pete has led the Public Works Department with exceptional care and precision,” Christie added. “He approaches every challenge with consideration, humor, and a thoughtful awareness of budgetary constraints — always with the best interests of the town in mind. Public safety, along with the well-being of his employees, residents, business owners, and visitors, has always been his top priority.”
A graduate of Northeastern University with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering, Ratkiewich is a registered professional engineer in Connecticut and Maine. He is registered with the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).
“On behalf of the entire town, his colleagues and friends, I thank Pete for his exceptional service and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement,” Christie said.
The search for Ratkiewich’s successor will commence shortly.
