The Hopkinsville Water Environment Authority has promoted longtime employee Daniel Lancaster to chief operating officer. Lancaster brings 16 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry, including 12 years with HWEA.
General Manager Melissa Spurr said Lancaster has earned the confidence of the board and staff through steady leadership, a strong commitment to compliance and water quality, and a focus on customer service.
Lancaster previously served as director of water and as environmental compliance coordinator. As COO, he will oversee daily operations and maintenance, utility compliance, strategic planning, and major projects.
He fills the position vacated when Spurr was recently promoted to general manager following the retirement of Derrick Watson at the end of 2025.
Lancaster holds two degrees from Murray State University and maintains a Kentucky Class IVA Water Treatment Operator Certification.
He and his wife, Heather, who is the executive director of Sanctuary Inc., have two daughters, Mallory and Amelia.
