New Bedford DPI Commissioner Ron Labelle to Retire

The City's Department of Public Infrastructure is retiring. Ron Labelle told his staff Thursday he will be stepping down from his position at the end of this fiscal year, June 30.

Labelle tells WBSM News he felt it was an appropriate time to announce his retirement. "Being a public servant is always something that I've enjoyed," said Labelle. "It's a really rewarding experience as a career objective. And after 32 years, I think it's time for me to retire and play a little golf."

Labelle says he had a lengthy conversation with Mayor Jon Mitchell about his decision. "And he said, 'Jeez, Ron. Don't give it a definitive date. I'm sure that there's some projects you want to finish," relayed Labelle. "I said, 'Mayor, there'll always be projects to finish. It'll never come to an end.' And that's kind of like the fun part of it all."

Labelle lists the South End Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Rt 18 reconstruction project as hallmarks during his 32 years of service to the city. Labelle is 63 years old.

He says he's recommended Zeb Arruda, DPI's Deputy Commissioner, to fill his position.