Sparks promotes treatment plant to department and appoints Casey Menser director

The Sparks City Council on Nov. 10 approved an employment agreement creating a standalone department for the Truckee Meadows Water Reclamation Facility and appointed Casey Menser as its treatment plant director with an annual salary of $163,176 plus benefits.

Assistant City Manager Lisonbee McCormick told council the city manager reorganized the facility because of its complexity and regional service: "The city manager has therefore reorganized Tom Wharf into its own department ... and has appointed Casey Menser as the treatment plant director." The staff recommendation cited Menser’s service at the facility since 2015 and a record of leadership in several plant roles.

Menser, sworn in at the meeting, described the plant as "the single largest wastewater treatment plant in Northern Nevada," saying it processes about 30,000,000 gallons a day and serves roughly 350,000 residents. He praised the approximately 70 employees at the facility and highlighted regional partnerships and innovation such as wastewater monitoring during COVID.

Council voted 5‑0 to approve the appointment; Menser thanked the council and staff and said the reorganization will empower staff to pursue efficiency, pilot programs and collaboration with the Water Innovation Institute and regional partners.

The council administered the oath of office immediately and asked staff to return as needed with updates on plant projects and capacity as Sparks grows.