Names in the News: Village Administrator Jeremy Smith

A strong sense of community is one of the driving traits that brings Sussex residents together, and now it's time to widen the net. 

They influence the big decisions. They plan the village's most notorious events. They're some of the most prominent people in Sussex, but how many village residents actually know anything about these people?

From the most involved volunteer in Sussex to the business owner on Main Street, Patch is introducing you to some of the most important people in the village, maybe for the first time.

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However, our second honorary interviewee is none other than Sussex Village Adminstrator Jeremy Smith. Jeremy knows almost every last detail about Sussex and has his hands in every major decision the Village Board, so if you should know one person in the village, make it Jeremy. 

Q: Name & Occupation  

A: Jeremy Smith, Sussex Village Administrator

How long have you worked in Sussex? 

Since June 2003 

What do you like most about this community? 

All of the special events and the quality of life here.

What community and civic organizations are you currently involved in? 

The Village and its various boards and committees.

What drew you to your profession and what do you find most interesting about the work you do? 

As a kid my grandfather was a town supervisor in a town in Calumet County, Wisconsin, and I respected what he was trying to give back to his community. In college I looked into different aspects of public service (federal, state, and local). I met a city manager in a neighboring community and it clicked. That is what I wanted to do. 

This job is amazing because you get to work on such varied projects as a development deal one hour and a sewer force main project the next, and then it is a resident concern about some issue the next.

What personal and professional accomplishments are you most proud of? 

I am happy to have a lovely wife and a beautiful little daughter that understands (my wife anyway) all the late night meetings and time away from them. The village has changed a lot since June of 2003 when I first arrived, and we’ve accomplished a lot.

As I go around the village I’ll notice things here and there, and I'll think back to what went into getting that problem solved or that deal done. It has been a pleasure to have gotten to know so many people and their stories. 

Who is most influential in your life? 

My wife and family. My grandfather was a big influence before he passed away when I was a kid.

What person—professionally or personally—do you most admire? 

I have had some great mentors along the way.

What are key ways other people can make a difference locally in Sussex? 

Get involved in something you are passionate about that can help your community, neighborhood, etc.  Whether it is serving on a committee, helping out the S.O.S. Food Pantry, or volunteering at the community center or ice cream social.  Finally care about your neighbors and neighborhood.  Part of what makes Sussex so special is the neighborhoods that get together and have activities.