This week the nation will be celebrating one of the most important local governmental departments: public works “There would be no community without the quality of life public works provides” (APWA). In this blog post I outline some great ICMA resources that feature the accomplishments of public works departments.

• City of Ormond Beach, Florida, Public Works Fleet Operation was recognized as one of the best in North America. 
• Edmond, Oklahoma’s professional training program created a win-win situation for public works employees and the city.  This program began as employee cross-training that would also elevate the professionalism of the public works profession. This article outlines the innovative thinking of public works employee Henry Lopez. Lopez helped the County of Coconino, Arizona, save paint and money by implementing a creative and cost-effective way to paint parking lot lines.
• San Antonio, Texas’s public works department repurposed retired parking meters to be used as donation stations for the homeless.
• Check out how these public works departments maximized savings with their fleet management practices.

How will your community celebrate National Public Works Week? Please share your comments below.

Douglas Shontz
Knowledge Network Intern