Public Works

Johnnie Burns joined the Village of Yellow Springs in January 2014 as Electric / Water Superintendent. He was promoted to Public Works Director in May 2018 and currently serves as both Public Works Director and Village Manager. He was appointed Interim Village Manager in August 2023 and named Village Manager in February 2024.

Prior to his service with the Village, Burns served in the U.S. Navy. Following his military service, he began his career as a residential electrician and advanced into commercial and industrial work. He built extensive experience in the utility field, including roles as a lineman, equipment operator, utility superintendent, and project manager. He is a graduate of the Greene County Career Center, where he studied welding.

Burns has received multiple professional honors, including the 7 Hats Award from American Municipal Power in 2016 and the Larry Hobart 7 Hats Award from the American Public Power Association in 2017. In 2019, he received the Operators Meritorious Service Award in recognition of outstanding accomplishments in providing a high-quality water supply and his dedication to leadership in the water industry.

Burns values the variety his role offers, from administrative responsibilities to addressing infrastructure needs, and enjoys working to identify practical solutions that support the Village’s continued progress. He is committed to building on the Village’s strong foundation and ensuring it remains well-positioned for future generations.