Leesburg Water Treatment Plant Manager Retires After Three Decades of Service

Russell Chambers, a dedicated employee of the Town of Leesburg for nearly 30 years, is set to retire this week. Chambers has held the position of Utility Plant Manager at the Leesburg Water Treatment Plant since 2014, overseeing a critical town infrastructure that has undergone significant expansion and modernization during his tenure. His departure marks the end of a long career focused on ensuring the delivery of high-quality water to the community.

Chambers began his journey with the Town of Leesburg’s Utilities Department in September 1996, entering as a Utility Plant Operator Trainee. Prior to joining the town, he spent seven years working in the construction industry after completing his college education. Throughout his career with Leesburg, Chambers steadily advanced through various roles within the Utilities Department. He was promoted to Utility Plant Supervisor in September 2001, followed by a move to Assistant Utility Plant Superintendent in January 2004, and then Deputy Utility Plant Manager in October 2005. His most recent role as Utility Plant Manager began in November 2014.

During his nearly three decades with the town, Chambers has witnessed substantial growth and evolution in both the utility plant operations and the water industry itself. He has seen the Leesburg water utility plant’s capacity more than double, increasing from an initial capacity of 5 million gallons per day (mgd) to its current capability of 12.5 mgd. This expansion has been essential to keep pace with the burgeoning residential population and the increasing demands of commercial enterprises within Leesburg. Concurrently, the water industry has experienced significant changes, characterized by the implementation of more rigorous regulatory standards and the widespread adoption of advanced automation technologies.

Despite these changes and increased demands, the quality of water produced in Leesburg has remained consistently high, a point Chambers often highlighted. This commitment to excellence has been recognized by the Virginia Department of Health, which has awarded the Town of Leesburg the Excellence in Waterworks Performance Award for 21 consecutive years. Chambers attributed this sustained achievement to a foundational philosophy of operational excellence, established by his predecessor and mentor, Larry Taylor, a philosophy he and his team continued to uphold and build upon.

When reflecting on his long tenure with the Leesburg Utilities Department, Chambers credited his colleagues and the opportunities for professional growth within the organization as key factors in his dedication. He noted the clear career progression available, allowing individuals to start in entry-level positions and advance through the ranks with hard work and the support of their peers. This environment, he stated, reflects a strong management approach within the department.

Following Chambers’ retirement, Joe Phillips will assume the role of Utility Plant Manager. Phillips has served as the Deputy Utility Plant Manager under Chambers since 2014 and also began his career with the Utilities Department as a Utility Plant Operator Trainee, starting in 1998. This transition ensures continuity in leadership and operational knowledge at the water treatment facility.

In his retirement, Chambers expressed his anticipation of having more time for personal projects around his home and indicated that he may consider relocating in the coming years. His departure is seen as a significant loss to the department, with town officials acknowledging his professionalism, dedication, and the lasting impact of his leadership and mentorship.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Town of Leesburg, Virginia.

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