With over 45 years of experience in construction and six years of proven leadership as Superintendent of Highways, Rich Benkwitt has delivered results the people of Mount Pleasant can see and drive on every day. He has championed the repaving of 90 percent of local roads and replacing miles of aging drainage pipes to protect homes and neighborhoods for the future.

Rich is an experienced public servant who has proudly volunteered for nearly four decades with the Thornwood Fire Department, serving as Chief from 2009 to 2013 and as Fire Commissioner for more than 30 years. With advanced degrees in Organizational Leadership, Construction Management, and Energy Technology, along with hands-on expertise as a heavy equipment operator and Class A CDL license holder, Rich brings both technical skill and strategic vision to the job.

As a devoted father, grandfather, coach, and neighbor, his roots in Mount Pleasant run deep, and his commitment reflects the values of hard work, responsibility, and putting community first. His mission is simple but powerful: to continue bringing out the Pleasant in Mount Pleasant for every citizen by ensuring safe, modern, and well-maintained infrastructure to stand the test of time.