Linda MacGregor, director of Gainesville’s Department of Water Resources (DWR), has announced her retirement after more than 10 years leading the city’s utilities operations. Her last day on the job will be September 25.
MacGregor, who took the helm in February 2016, has overseen a multi‑million‑dollar operation providing water, sewer, and stormwater services to Gainesville and Hall County. Under her leadership, the department’s customer base grew by 15,000 accounts, and comprehensive asset management and safety programs were launched.
“It has been my highest honor to serve in this role for the past 10 years,” MacGregor said. “It has been a pleasure to serve alongside city leaders, and especially to serve with the 200‑plus water professionals who ensure safe drinking water and environmental protection every day and all night long.”
City Manager Bryan Lackey praised her contributions, noting that MacGregor’s expertise positioned Gainesville as a WaterFirst Community and helped secure numerous awards from the Georgia Association of Water Professionals and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The city has begun the process of selecting her successor, with an announcement expected later this year. In retirement, MacGregor says she looks forward to spending time with family, pursuing genealogy, gardening, and enjoying life as a self‑described “crazy dog lady.”