Tom Shuler is Butler's new streets department foreman. He was promoted by city council Thursday night.

The city has hired its new streets department foreman, who will have to replace 42 years of experience.

Tom Shuler was hired by city council Thursday night to replace the recently retired Ralph Graham, who had worked for the department since 1971.

Shuler got the job because he has experience with the department, having worked for the city since 1993.

“He was the man who always filled in for Ralph through the years,” said city clerk Mindy Gall, “so he has the experience.”

Shuler was promoted from his position as a skilled laborer.

“It’s been a long time coming,” he said. “I’ve been with the city for 20 years.”

Shuler said his experience filling in for Graham over the past several years has prepared him for his added responsibilities.

One of those added tasks will be interacting with city officials. It’s something Shuler has done in the past couple of weeks.

“I seem to be getting along with everybody so far,” he said, adding that Councilman Richard Schontz, who oversees that department, personally congratulated him on the promotion.

Clay McAnallen was promoted from truck driver to take over Shuler’s previous position. The vacant truck driver position is expected to be filled next month.

The streets department maintains more than 80 miles of roads and alleys in the city.

The department has five full-time employees.