York County highway superintendent announces retirement

YORK – Harvey Keim, who has been the York County highway superintendent for the last 12 years, has announced his retirement.

​He made his announcement Tuesday morning, Oct. 14, during the regular meeting of the York County Commissioners. He acknowledged “people already know out there,” so it was no surprise to his staff or the county commissioners.
York County Commissioner Chairman Randy Obermier said Keim submitted his letter of resignation two weeks ago, privately with the board, so they would have a heads up to what is coming. His staff was also informed ahead of the announcement.
Obermier said an interim director will be named at the next meeting of the county board and they will begin the process of taking applications for the position very shortly.
“Thank you for this opportunity,  I’m retiring as of Oct. 31,” Keim told the county board. “We have done a lot of good work over the years.”
Over the past 12 years, the county has replaced a number of aging bridges, funded by bonding, and a number of projects have been accomplished through ARPA funds (federal COVID-relief funds).
The county roads department hub location in York has also expanded in size, providing more room for gravel/rock storage.
The county roads department maintains 1,100 miles of surface and the county continues to utilize 13 maintainer districts.
“Thank you for all you’ve done for York County and our roads,” said York County Commissioner Daniel Grotz, as the board wished Keim well and acknowledged his accomplishments with his team.
Besides the daunting task of maintaining all of the county's roads -- in good times and in bad, as well as removing snow during blizzards, of which there have been historic situations during his tenure -- Keim also oversaw the replacement of every single stop sign in the county.