Retirement Recognition – Ken Kilian, District 4 Alderperson

After more than 35 years of dedicated service to the City of Platteville, Ken Kilian has officially announced his retirement from the Common Council, effective October 20, 2025.

The City of Platteville proudly recognizes and honors Ken Kilian for his extraordinary service and dedication to our community. Beginning his call to service in 1984 as an at-large member, Ken was subsequently elected to represent District 4 in April 1991, where he served continuously until his retirement on October 20, 2025—a tenure spanning over four decades and making him one of the longest-serving council members in city history.

Ken’s commitment to public service is reflected in his extensive involvement across nearly every city board, commission, and advisory group. His contributions include service on the Water & Sewer Commission, Plan Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Library Board, Museum Board, Park Board, Tree Advisory Board, Public Housing Authority Board, License Committee, Joint ET Committee, and the Historic Preservation Commission. His leadership and insight have helped shape policies and initiatives that continue to benefit the community today.

During his time on the Council, Ken played a pivotal role in shaping policy that influenced the development and improvement of Platteville’s storm water system, the restoration of Harrison Park, the City’s designation as a Tree City USA, and the community’s recovery efforts following the 2019 tornado. These contributions reflect his deep commitment to environmental stewardship, public infrastructure, and community resilience.

Ken’s professional background in soil science, plant nutrition, and environmental quality has been a tremendous asset to the City. With a Bachelor of Science in Soil Science and Agribusiness, and Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Soil Fertility, Plant Nutrition, and Plant Physiology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Ken brought a unique and deeply informed perspective to city governance. His academic career included five years of teaching and research at Texas Tech University and 37 years at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, where he retired as Professor Emeritus in 2005.

Ken’s technical expertise has been instrumental in guiding city decisions related to environmental stewardship, infrastructure, and land use. His efforts helped Platteville achieve and maintain its designation as a Tree City USA since 2016. He also played a key role in the documentation and preservation of Platteville’s historic properties, culminating in the adoption of the Chapter 27 Historic Preservation Ordinance in 2008.

Throughout his tenure, Ken has been a thoughtful and engaged leader. His retirement marks the end of an era of dedicated public service, and his legacy will continue to influence the City of Platteville for years to come.

In Ken’s parting letter to the council, he stated, “Serving the residents of District 4 and the greater Platteville community has been a particularly cherished aspect of my life. I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated colleagues and community members on a wide range of boards, commissions, and committees. Each role has deepened my appreciation for the values and vision that make Platteville a great place to live.

I am especially grateful to my wife and family for their unwavering support throughout these many years of public service. Their encouragement and patience have allowed me to devote myself fully to the responsibilities of city government. I also want to thank the residents of District 4 and the entire community for placing their trust in me. Your confidence has been both humbling and inspiring.

As many of you know, I have long been passionate about environmental quality, historic preservation, and public service, shaped by my academic and professional background in soil science and conservation. My years teaching and conducting research at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and Texas Tech University have informed my approach to city government and community stewardship.

At this time, I must prioritize my health and well-being. While this decision was not easy, I believe it is the right one for me and my family. I remain committed to the success of Platteville and will continue to support our community in any way I can. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve. It has truly been an honor.” – Ken Kilian

The City of Platteville extends our deepest gratitude to Ken Kilian, and his family, for his decades of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community. We wish him well in retirement and thank him for the honor of his service.