By Dawn Krebs
dkrebs@hometownnewsol.com
PORT ST. LUCIE -- To help city manager Gregory Oravec with the many responsibilities that come with running one of the largest cities in the state, Jeff Bremer recently took his place as assistant city manager.
Mr. Bremer moved with his wife, Christine, from Michigan for the position, and with him come his 34 years of experience in public administration.
"It's been an educational first month," he said. "I think that this is such an incredibly dedicated group that works here."
His expertise in city government comes from his work within the cities of Birmingham and Fraser in Michigan. He holds a master's degree in public administration and a bachelor's degree in political science.
His new job responsibilities include overseeing a number of city departments, including parks and recreation, community services, building, zoning and public works.
"I am overseeing road projects and development projects," he said. "The tasks keep coming in and I'm going to keep tackling them."
His dedication to public service is a family event. His grandfather served as a mayor in Muskegon, Mich., and his sons have also served in city government.
"We've always encouraged volunteerism and public service in our family," he said.
There won't be much of a learning curve for the Bremer family when it comes to the area, however. The Bremers have owned a condo locally for several years, in the same building they first honeymooned in.
"We've spent Christmases here," Mr. Bremer said. "So we've been able to see the growth as it has been happening."
Mr. Oravec said he's impressed by Mr. Bremer's long history of public service.
"Here's someone who grew up in, and really, truly believes in, service above self," Mr. Oravec said.
Now that he and his family have settled in, Mr. Bremer looks forward to working with the public.
"We've always called it our home away from home, and now we can call it home."