Christine Knapp Appointed General Manager of the Madison Water Utility

For Immediate Release 
June 25, 2026 

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway is appointing Christine Knapp as the next General Manager of the Madison Water Utility. Knapp has served with the City of Cedar Rapids Water Division for the past nine years, the last five as Plant Manager.  

“Christine has an accomplished track record as a top manager in a municipal water utility. I'm confident that she shares the City's values and will put the best interests of the public at the forefront of decision-making," said Mayor Rhodes-Conway. “Christine's wealth of experience will be put to good use at the Madison Water Utility."  

Knapp directed operations at Cedar Rapids Water Division's two drinking water treatment and pumping facilities. She has managed major capital projects, championed a safety-first organizational culture, helped create a robust public education program to deepen residents' understanding of the full water cycle, and ensured no service interruptions to residents or businesses during four consecutive drought years.  

“I am excited to join the Madison Water Utility team. Clean, safe water is something most of us take for granted every single day, and I love that this work happens quietly behind the scenes to make that possible," said Knapp. “I'm looking forward to getting to know this community, learning from such a dedicated team, and rolling up my sleeves to help keep Madison's water systems reliable for years to come." 

Knapp has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management from Mount Mercy University and a Master of Business Administration and Organizational Development from Upper Iowa University. She has also served as a Board Trustee for the American Water Works Association, Iowa Section.  

The appointment is contingent on Knapp's contract being approved by the Madison Common Council. If approved, her first day as General Manager of the Madison Water Utility will be Aug. 31, 2026.