Meet the Team

JJ Larson

JJ Larson, Deputy Administrator / Director of Public Works & Utilities


JJ serves as the Deputy Administrator / Director of Public Works & Utilities. JJ joined the Village of Cottage Grove in 2015. As the Deputy Administrator, JJ is responsible for providing professional support to the Administration, Planning & Development, Finance, and Clerks Department. The Deputy Administrator is responsible for managing the Village's day-to-day operations in the Administrator's absence. As Director of Public Works & Utilities, JJ is responsible for directing and administering the activities of the Public Works Department, especially for the long-term strategic planning of the department.

  • Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & History from UW-Madison and a Master's in Public Administration from Upper Iowa University. 
  • Experience: Deputy Administrator / Director of Public Works (2021 - Present); Director of Public Works (2015 - 2021); Maintenance Supervisor, City of Madison Water Utility (2013 - 2015); Operations Lead worker, City of Madison Water Utility (2012 - 2013); Equipment Operator 1, City of Madison Water Utility (2002 - 2012); Public Works Maintenance Worker 2 (2000 - 2002).
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Brian Peterson, Deputy Director of Public Works & Utilities


Brian serves as the Deputy Director of Public Works & Utilities. Brian joined the Village in 2022. Brian brings decades of experience not only in operations but the management of public works. Brian manages the day-to-day operations of Public Works including the water and sewer utilities, storm sewers, street reconstruction and maintenance, snow and ice removal, and maintenance of public facilities.  

  • Education: Certified in Public Works Management from the University of Madison, Aquatics Facilities Operators Certification, Herbicide and Pesticide Applicators License, Public Fleet Management Certified through APWA  
  • Experience: Deputy Director of Public Works/Utilities(2022-Present); Street Superintendent, City of Verona (2021-2022); Director of Public Works, Village of Winneconne (2020-2021); Equipment Operator, Village of Little Chute, (2006-2020); Parks and building Maintenance Director, City of Seymour (2004-2006)