After 32 years of dedicated service to the Deer Park community, Roger Krieger reflects on his journey, the challenges faced, and the bright future ahead for the city.
After more than three decades of unwavering commitment to the city of Deer Park, Roger Krieger is stepping down and retiring. In an exclusive interview, he shares his unique perspective on the city’s growth, challenges, and the rewarding journey of serving his hometown.
Born and raised in Deer Park, Krieger embarked on his public service career after a brief stint in Alaska for college. “I was gonna be a physical education teacher. It’s kind of what I wanted to do when I was young…” said Krieger during our conversation. One might wonder how a teacher with dreams of coaching ended up overseeing construction projects, water distribution, wastewater management, and grant applications. With a major in Physical Education, Krieger found his minor and experience in construction to be more marketable and secured a job teaching drafting. He credits mentors like Max Sanchez and Monty Pitts from his school days for shaping his values of teaching, coaching, and public service.
When the opportunity arose to work for the city, he seized it and has since become an integral part of Deer Park’s administrative landscape. Hired to perform building and planning tasks, Krieger was surprised on his second day that he would be required to also work with the water distribution systems. “I got my certification in water distribution and then just shortly thereafter. We had a part time guy that was involved with the wastewater plant… He informed us, he was retiring. So then I was like, okay, I got to take care of that too.” Krieger explained how he had become so involved in a wide range of tasks within the city.
Krieger attributes the length of his stay with the city to the need for certain tasks to be completed and his dedication to ensuring the city’s progress. Over the years, Roger Krieger wore many hats, including that of a firefighter and a commissioner in the local fire district. His positive impact on the community extended beyond city hall.
Krieger maintains a deep affection for his hometown and the people who influenced his life. He acknowledges the support of his family, especially his wife, throughout his journey. As Krieger prepares for retirement, the city faces new challenges and opportunities. Krieger emphasizes the importance of continued investment in infrastructure, especially water sources and road networks. The responsibility of maintaining the small-town feel while accommodating growth lies ahead.
When asked about his future plans, Krieger mentions a snowbird lifestyle in warmer climates and more time spent with family. However, he remains open to opportunities for continued involvement in public service, suggesting that retirement doesn’t mean the end of his dedication to Deer Park.
Deer Park owes a great deal of gratitude to Roger Krieger for his tireless efforts and unwavering dedication over the past 32 years. His legacy of public service will continue to inspire the city’s leaders and residents as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future. Krieger’s last day with the city is September 27th.
