Get to Know: John Dunagan

Director of Solid Waste Management

Words by Thomas Ingle | Image by Justin Hunter

From icy cold, wet days to hot and humid days, John Dunagan has worked every position the Walker County Solid Waste department has offered him. From laborer, driver, and now to director, John assists his community and, in turn, gives his family the best he has to offer as a father and husband.

John was born and raised in the unincorporated community of Curry, Alabama. While in school at Curry High School, John donned the blue and yellow and competed in football and baseball for the Yellow Jackets. He even met his wife, Alicia, at one of the games.

John graduated from Curry in 1999 and started his career in solid waste in November 1999.

He initially became aware of a position at solid waste through a family friend, and when employment became available, John started out as a laborer, hanging on the back of the truck.

"Those cold, wet days were not good," John admits.

Later, he was promoted to Driver/Operator. In those days, the workers would swap. “You would have two drivers, and you would swap,” Dunagan reflects. “It was a long day, but it was good.”

John is now in his third year as the Director of Solid Waste. He oversees the whole department and answers to the Walker County Commission. He is two years away from retiring at just 44 years of age.

John and Alica married in 2001. The Dunagans have two children, Caleb (22) and Cody (20),

While the two boys were growing up, John loved observing them play ball.

During retirement, John wants to help his community in any way possible and spend time with his future grandchildren. 78