IDA promotes manager

LAKEWOOD RANCH — Lakewood Ranch’s maintenance manager, Paul Chetlain, would rather work with his hands than stand behind a podium. 

But, in just a few weeks, he’ll officially be changing his day-to-day mode of operation. The Inter-District Authority last week tapped Chetlain as its future director of operations, following the resignation of Operations Director Ryan Heise.

“I’m more comfortable behind the scenes,” said Chetlain, who joined the IDA in his current role in 2009. “I enjoy what I’m doing. But I had great encouragement from (Town Hall Executive Director) Eva (Rey) and Ryan. Eva’s confidence in me really pushed me forward.” 

Heise, who leaves Sept. 24 to become the village administrator in Egg Harbor, Wis., said Chetlain has had a role in virtually every major project completed by the department, including the installation of carp and aerators to improve aesthetics and water quality in lakes and the construction of the department’s new operations facility.

“Paul will be fantastic,” Heise said. “Paul is the brains of the operation and I’m just the mouthpiece, so now he gets to be the brains and the mouth.

“Everything he does is quality,” he said. “He doesn’t compromise. The guys really respect him and he’s respected by the (CDD) board members and the staff. He’ll do great.”

When discussion Chetlain’s promotion, IDA Chairman Tom Green noted Chetlain has been the driver behind many improvements made by the organization.

“If we can grow him into a manager, we’ve got a real diamond in the rough,” he said.

As maintenance manager, Chetlain oversees the upkeep of Lakewood Ranch communities, from sidewalks to parks to street lighting, electrical installations and even gatehouse functions. 

In his new role, Chetlain will focus more on the whole department.

Chetlain admits taking more of a public role will be somewhat uncomfortable, but at least it won’t be unfamiliar, for he’s filled in for Heise and presented at community development district meetings, as needed. He’ll also have to spend more time planning out projects, responding to inquiries and handling other communication-focused responsibilities. 

“That will be new and it may be more challenging,” he said, adding he’s a bit nervous about public speaking at events such as Town Hall’s new resident orientation meetings.

But, perhaps the biggest change will be the simplest. He will have to trade his blue jeans and polo shirt for a suit and tie.

“I”m going to have to get used to that,” Chetlain said, smiling. “I’ve always been in the field and close to the work being done, but that’s fine.”

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].