Ladysmith’s Infrastructure Services staff team has received provincial recognition for its engaging and highly popular Public Works Week event.
The town received the Public Works Week - Community Celebration Award from the Public Works Association of British Columbia at a ceremony earlier this month.
The award is given to municipalities/agencies or regions with populations under 100,000 that use the annual public awareness week to educate and inform the public about the essential role that public works plays in local communities.
Ladysmith’s event took place on May 24 this year as children, parents, and early years groups toured the public works yard on 6th Avenue.
Highlights of the day included children being able to sit behind the wheel of some of the town’s largest work vehicles, live demonstrations of heavy machinery, hopping aboard Ladysmith Fire Rescue trucks, information display boards, the opportunity to meet with community groups committed to public safety and of course snacks such as hot dogs and cake.
“Carrying out a successful Public Works Day requires the time and dedication of every member of our team. Preparation required for clean-up and set-up of the yard, vehicles, heavy duty machines, equipment and displays means all hands on deck for days leading up to the actual event,” said Infrastructure Services Manager of Operations Kevin Goldfuss.
“The true reward is knowing that all of the children, parents, teachers, caregivers and others who attended our celebration enjoyed themselves and learned more about public works. This award is the much appreciated icing on the cake.”
Equally important is promoting the choice of public works as a career choice for the working force of the future and recognizing those who currently serve in these crucial public roles.
Selection criteria for the award included public outreach, education, events held, staff involvement, political involvement and event creativity.
“I am absolutely delighted that our Infrastructure Services staff have received this well deserved award,” said Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone.
“It really speaks to the hard work that went into planning such a fun and engaging community event, and the year-round dedication of our crews in keeping Ladysmith’s streets, roads, parks and infrastructure safe, clean and beautiful.”