After more than 20 years of outstanding public service, Troy Hayes, Director of the Phoenix Water Services Department, has announced his retirement. A respected national voice in water utility leadership and a second-generation water professional, Hayes leaves behind a legacy defined by innovation, resilience, and a deep commitment to public service.
Since his appointment as Director in 2021, Hayes has overseen one of the largest potable water utilities in the United States. He led a workforce of 1,500 employees responsible for delivering safe, high-quality drinking water to 1.7 million customers and wastewater services to nearly 3 million people across a 540-square-mile service area. His tenure was marked by strategic investments in drought-resilient infrastructure and forward-thinking water reuse initiatives, including the Drought Pipeline Project, reactivation of the Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant, and planning for the region’s Advanced Water Purification Facility.
"Troy’s leadership and strategic foresight have positioned Phoenix as a national model for sustainable water management," said Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton. "His contributions will benefit our city for generations to come."
The City of Phoenix is pleased to announce the appointment of Brandy Kelso as the next Director of the Water Services Department. Kelso has more than two decades of engineering and utility experience, including recent leadership roles as Assistant Water Services Director and Interim Director of the Street Transportation Department. She has served the City of Phoenix since 2003.
Kelso holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering from Arizona State University and is a licensed Professional Engineer in Arizona. She has led major initiatives in water system planning, hydraulic modeling, drought preparedness, and conservation. Known for her collaborative leadership style and technical expertise, she is well-positioned to guide the department through its next chapter.
"Brandy has played a central role in many of the department’s most critical initiatives," Barton said. "Her deep knowledge of the system, focus on customer service, and dedication to sustainability make her the ideal leader for this role."
Kelso will assume leadership of the department after Hayes’ retirement takes effect on Friday, August 15.
About City of Phoenix Water Services Department
The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit phoenix.gov/water.
Media Contacts:
Michael Gertzman
Sr. Public Information Officer
602-534-1209
michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov
Jimena Garrison
Public Information Officer
480-390-1933
jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov
