Mixie Schafer picked to lead county's noxious weed department
Jackson County employee Mixie Schafer, 32, has been promoted to director of the county’s noxious weed and environmental services department, it has been reported.
Schafer has served as the administrative assistant in the department for about three years. She replaces former director Dan Robinson, who resigned after working for the county since October 2007. Robinson is moving out of state.
As the director, Schafer will manage the county landfill, recycling center, household hazardous waste center and noxious weed department.
A native of Soldier, Schafer graduated from Emporia State University in 2010 with a degree in biology.
“I have a background with plants, which is great as I work in the noxious weed department,” Schafer said. “I also have a background in chemistry that helps with the hazardous waste aspect.”
When Schafer first applied for the administrative assistant position three years ago, she thought it would be a “good fit” for her.
“It’s been a really fun job,” she said. “I enjoy our customers that come in, and everybody has been friendly. When Dan announced he was leaving, I thought this was a perfect time to step up.”
As the director, Schafer will need to obtain additional certification and training regarding solid waste, as well as a license to sell restricted use pesticides.
The department is in the process of installing a new recycling baler at the recycling center. The new baler was purchased from MAX-PAK of Alabama at a cost of $62,604 and was approved by the Jackson County Commissioners earlier this year.
“We’re in the process of taking out the old baler and wiring new electricity so the new one can be installed later this week,” she said.
As the director, Schafer oversees three full-time employees and one seasonal employee. Her salary is now $19.18 an hour, and she will work Tuesday through Saturday.
“I’m really happy that they decide to promote within the department,” she said.
Her parents are John and Janet Schafer of rural Soldier.
