WHEREAS, Norbert S. Klopsch retired on November 1, 2024, after 32 years of loyal and exemplary public service to the City of Oakwood; and

WHEREAS, prior to becoming City Manager in 2002, Norbert S. Klopsch served as the city’s first in-house City Engineer from 1992 to 2000, subsequently advancing to become the Director of Engineering and Public Works for two years; and

WHEREAS, in addition to his duties as City Manager, during portions of his tenure, Norbert S. Klopsch assumed all responsibilities associated with the positions of Director of Engineering and Public Works, a measure taken to mitigate and navigate the negative impact the repealed Ohio estate tax had on city revenue; and

WHEREAS, during Norbert’s 22-year tenure, Norbert’s direct involvement and leadership propelled the city of Oakwood to take on many significant initiatives and projects, the most notable accomplishments evidencing his vision and city betterment include:

• Completion of the Shroyer Road Reconstruction project that positively impacted the residents living on the one-mile stretch of Shroyer Road and the 15,000+/-daily users of the roadway;
• Redevelopment of the former NCR Sugar Camp facility into the home of the Sugar Camp professional office complex and Beth Abraham Synagogue and the creation of the Pointe Oakwood residential neighborhood;
• Enlargement and reconstruction of the city administration and public safety building, which modernized facilities and improved the efficiency and functionality of the building; and
• Construction of Creager Field Dog Park, Cook Park, the Oakwood Community Center parking lot, the Recycling and Yard Waste Drop-off Facility, and the major renovations and improvements to Shafor, Orchardly, and Fairridge Parks, Houk Stream, and both Business Districts; and

WHEREAS, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Norbert guided the city of Oakwood with resilience and decisiveness, ensuring effective response measures were implemented to protect the health and well-being of residents and essential services continued to operate smoothly. His proactive approach and compassionate leadership navigated the city of Oakwood through one of its most challenging times; and

WHEREAS, city managers throughout and beyond the Miami Valley hold Norbert in high regard for his leadership, commitment, and management style; Norbert's standing has enhanced the prestige and reputation of our city; and

WHEREAS, throughout Norbert’s distinguished career, Norbert served Oakwood with an unmatched sense of duty and personal integrity, and represented Oakwood with the highest degree of professionalism, regarding his job as both a vocation and avocation; and

WHEREAS, Norbert possessed a keen understanding of what makes Oakwood a very special community and was guided by that understanding in all of his actions and decision-making; and

WHEREAS Norbert will be forever remembered as a City Manager who genuinely cared for the Oakwood community, his dedication to service emboldened by his strong work ethic, deep understanding of governmental issues, and ability to apply calm and reasoned judgment even in the most challenging situations;