APWA UNVEILS NEW PUBLIC WORKS POLICY PRIORITIES
• Sens. Ossoff, Rev. Warnock Announce Bipartisan Infrastructure
Law Investments to Upgrade Metro Atlanta Infrastructure
• APWA’S Georgia Chapter Holds 40th Annual Equipment Show
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APWA GEORGIA CHAPTER
4915 Chase Lane Cumming, GA 30040 georgia.apwa.org
PRESIDENT
Mr. Christopher Cox
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Mr. Felix Floyd
PAST PRESIDENT
Mr. Christopher Rotalsky
VICE PRESIDENT
Mr. Tyler Pannell
SECRETARY
Mr. Patrick S. Collins, P.E.
DELEGATE
Mr. Lenardo “Leo” Owens
TREASURER
Mrs. Becky L. Kinsey
ALTERNATE DELEGATE
Mr. Terrence Simpkins
Tel: 866-985-9780 Fax: 866-985-9799 www.kelmanonline.com
Managing Editor: Mathias Leiendecker
Marketing Manager: Megan Stanley
Design/layout: Kellee Breckman
Advertising Coordinator: Stefanie Hagidiakow
DOMINICK LONGOBARDI, APWA PRESIDENT
In public works, there are vast opportunities to lend a helping hand to improve the quality of life for all. Public works is the backbone of our communities, and without public works, we would have mountains of garbage on our sidewalks. The solid waste industry plays a critical role in maintaining public health, and environmental quality, and protecting our communities for our families. From the collection of household refuse to the management of recycling programs and hazardous waste, solid waste management is indispensable. However, it also comes with significant challenges, particularly concerning worker safety and workforce development. The solid waste industry is a family in itself and made up of our family members. It’s critical to protect our family. As we explore the hazards workers face in the solid waste industry and how industry practices and community involvement can enhance their safety and well-being, we can figure out how to lend a helping hand to create a better industry.
1. Physical hazards. Workers in the solid waste industry are exposed to numerous physical hazards daily. These include heavy lifting, repetitive motion, and working with dangerous machinery. The risk of injuries such as cuts, bruises, and fractures is high, especially when dealing with sharp objects and heavy containers. Furthermore, the operation of waste collection trucks and other equipment poses risks of accidents and mechanical failures.
2.Biological and chemical hazards. Another significant concern is exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Solid waste workers often encounter hazardous substances, including medical waste, chemicals, and other toxic materials. This exposure can lead to respiratory issues, skin conditions, and other health problems. Additionally, the risk of contracting infectious diseases is elevated due to the handling of potentially contaminated waste.
3. Environmental hazards. Environmental conditions also contribute to the risks faced by waste workers. Extreme weather conditions, such as heat waves, cold snaps, and heavy rain, can make the job more dangerous. In hot climates, the risk of heatstroke and dehydration is significant, while cold weather can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.
While these hazards are always present, the men and women of the solid waste industry continue to show up every day for our communities. It takes a village to address these hazards. A group effort—from organizational management to customers—can help implement several measures:
1. Comprehensive training programs. Training is the cornerstone of worker safety. Providing comprehensive training programs that cover the proper handling of hazardous materials, the operation of machinery, and ergonomic best practices can significantly reduce the risk of injuries.
Regular refresher courses and updates on new safety protocols are also essential.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Ensuring that workers have access to and consistently use appropriate personal protective equipment is crucial. This includes gloves, safety glasses, helmets, reflective clothing, and respiratory protection. Employers should enforce PPE usage and replace worn or damaged equipment promptly.
4. Health and safety policies. Developing and enforcing strict health and safety policies can help mitigate risks. This includes implementing protocols for handling hazardous materials, conducting regular safety inspections, and encouraging a culture of safety where workers feel comfortable reporting hazards and near-misses. Customers can help by ensuring proper disposal and placement of hazardous waste.
5. Health monitoring and support. Regular health monitoring and providing access to healthcare services can help in the early detection and management of work-related health issues. Support programs, such as mental health counseling and wellness initiatives, can also contribute to overall worker well-being.
Community Involvement in Supporting Waste Workers
The community plays a vital role in supporting the safety and well-being of solid waste workers. Here are some ways in which individuals and communities can lend a helping hand:
1.Proper waste segregation and preparation. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to support solid waste workers is through proper waste segregation and preparation. By separating
recyclables, hazardous waste, and general waste, community members can reduce the risk of exposure to dangerous materials. Properly sealed and labeled waste also makes the job safer and more efficient for workers.
2. Educating and raising awareness. Community education and awareness campaigns can highlight the importance of solid waste management and the role of solid waste workers. Understanding the challenges these workers face can foster greater respect and cooperation from the public.
3. Supporting recycling programs. Active participation in local recycling programs not only helps the environment but also supports the solid waste industry. By reducing the volume of waste that needs to be managed, recycling can decrease the workload and associated risks for waste workers.
4. Showing appreciation. Small gestures of appreciation can go a long way. Thanking solid waste workers, providing them with refreshments on hot days, or simply acknowledging their hard work can boost their morale and show that their efforts are valued. Solid waste workers make magic happen every day.
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5. Advocacy and policy support. Advocating for policies that protect solid waste workers’ rights and safety is crucial. Supporting legislation that mandates fair wages, health benefits, and safe working conditions can bring about long-term improvements in the industry.
The solid waste industry is essential for maintaining public health and environmental quality, but it comes with significant risks for workers. It takes a village to make a change and enhance the solid waste industry. By implementing robust safety measures and fostering community support, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for these first responders and essential workers. Education, recycling participation, appreciation, and advocacy are key ways in which communities can contribute. Together, these efforts can help ensure that our family members are protected, valued, and able to perform their crucial tasks safely and effectively. It’s a great day when the garbage collector comes by your house. Let’s work together to make every day a great day.
Experienced Automotive Sales Director, Ron, is a Chicago born native who started in the car business as a Sales Consultant for the Billionaire owned Van Tuyl Group in 1999. Larry Van Tuyl recently sold his Dealerships to Warren Buffet. Since 2001, Ron has moved up the ranks as a BDC Director, Internet Director, New/Pre-Owned Sales Manager, and Vehicle Exchange Director. Ron was able to learn the art of "desking" deals for his team which helped when he moved up to Regional General Sales Manager. Ron has been a speaker at the Sickle Cell Conference 2007, hosted by Tionne Watkins (T-Boz) from the Multi-Platinum Group TLC. Ron has been personally mentored by Grammy Award winning Superstar Usher Raymond, Gold Recording artist Keith Thomas, and Platinum Music Business Mogul Michael Bivins of New Edition and Bell Biv Devoe.
After much success on the retail side of the business and writing for Usher Raymond and Grammy producer J-Lack, Ron created a Consultation company as CEO and partnered with a high-ranking partner Jerry Linsky of the Van Tuyl Group. Ron saw a need within businesses to teach the art of client experience, desking deals, process management, accountability, and execution.
This partnership allowed Ron to travel the country for over 20 years, setting records, speaking, building, and maintaining the Business Development culture in over 100 plus dealerships and businesses. These life experiences also led him to training Commercial and Government Fleet Departments.
Ron attended Full Sail and Kemet University, learned how to code, build, and distribute Mobile Applications and is currently studying Kemetic Metaphysics. He also became Founder of a Real Estate company in 2008 for retail/commercial investing as well. Ron has recently ventured with Wade Ford to assist in building client revenue and grow the company in the like.
When Ron isn’t coaching and closing deals, he enjoys reading books, meditating, fishing, golfing, playing the trumpet, and traveling with his family.
• Wade Ford has the State Contract for Police Interceptors and more
• Wade Ford has been in business for over 80 years
• Wade Ford has been the Top Commercial/Government Fleet Sales Contractor for years
Iwould like first to say thanks for your support and dedication to the American Public Works Association, as well as your work in making our communities stronger, more resilient, and more vibrant.
My name is Mark Rice, and I am your 2025 President of the Metro Atlanta APWA Branch. I am so excited for this leadership opportunity and to continue to build upon the legacy of our Metro Atlanta Branch Members and past leaders. I am excited about what is planned and what lies ahead for 2025.
Let me introduce your 2025 Metro Atlanta APWA Branch Board, a team of talented, diverse, and seasoned professionals:
· President-Elect:
Kim Roemer, StreetLogix
· Vice President/Membership Coordinator:
Moses Tejuoso, City of Atlanta
· Secretary/Treasurer:
Janna Bennett, Rockdale County
Immediate Past-President:
Yvone Douglas, Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.
We are implementing something new this year to assist with our training and meeting schedule. The area has been broken down into specific areas that will be served by a Branch Coordinator. The Branch Coordinator will assist in coordinating our quarterly in-person meetings, scheduling speakers, and being the liaison between the members and the board.
Finally, this year is about the members of this branch. I would like to encourage each jurisdiction and member to be involved in our branch and the Georgia APWA State Chapter. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways; however, some examples are participating in Public Works Week in May and applying for and being recognized for personal and project awards from the state chapter at the conference this summer.
I would like to extend my personal gratitude to you, your staff, and your organization for your invaluable involvement and support of APWA.
If you haven’t already, please consider becoming engaged with the Metro Atlanta APWA Branch and the Georgia APWA State Chapter.
Feel free to reach out to me directly via email at mrice2@mariettaga.gov if you have any questions.
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Memberships are extended to both current or past public works employees as well as to private company employees who interact with the American Public Works Association.
Membership comes with the opportunity to share common goals, challenges, and solutions with Public Works professionals throughout North America.
As a member, you’ll participate in local Chapter and Branch programs meetings – often at reduced pricing; gain exposure to more than 30,000 Public Works professionals; save money on the best education and training programs in Public Works, covering all disciplines with ability to receive CEUs and PDHs; gain free subscriptions to many infoNOW electronic networking communities and resources, including the APWA Reporter Magazine; receive free access to the Resource Center and registrations for live Click, Listen & Learn programs; and pay reduced pricing for books, videos, construction, water resources and more.
As a member, you’ll save up to 42% on registration for PWX, the NORTH American Snow Conference and most nationally sponsored workshops and e-learning programs; earn your professional certification credentials; have networking opportunities at the national, local chapter and/or Branch level; and receive discounts on advertising opportunities in the APWA Reporter Magazine and exhibitor space at the annual PWX* (*Corporate Crown Level Group Memberships only ).
APWA is your primary resource for public works-related knowledge.
Become an Individual or Group Member of the APWA
Individual APWA membership automatically includes a one-year membership to your local APWA or CPWA Chapter.
Individual Membership is available to:
• any official or employee (active, retired, or life) of a government agency, manufacturer, supplier, contractor, student, or consulting firm who is actively engaged in the field of Public Works.
Group Membership is available to:
• Student Groups,
• Public Agency Groups,
• One-Call Center/System Groups,
• Corporate Groups,
• Prestige Corporate, and
• Crown Corporate.
To learn more about APWA’s membership groups and how to become a member, visit www.apwa.net
Membership comes with the opportunity to share common goals, challenges, and solutions with Public Works professionals throughout North America.
Source: APWA Now
As the 119th Congress begins and President Trump has now been inaugurated, an organization of 32,000 public works professionals began delivering its new public policy priorities to each of Capitol Hill’s 535 Congressional offices.
The policies—covering the broad topics of emergency management, transportation, and water resiliency — are crafted by American Public Works Association members to help focus legislative and regulatory discussions as they impact communities nationwide.
“The Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act is maturing but our roads and bridges still need more attention, and our public works and engineering workforces are still not where they need to be,” APWA President Dominick Longobardi said. “APWA’s public policy priorities for the 119th Congress are designed to help our elected and appointed federal officials stay focused on what has been agreed to by both sides of the aisle and remind them of what still needs to be done.”
“As an organization, APWA is involved at the federal level in the development of laws and regulations that affect public works departments
throughout the country,” said APWA CEO Scott D. Grayson, CAE. “With a new Congress and a new president, it’s important for our membership to be able to share what’s important regarding the central needs that ensure our hometowns’ quality of life.”
“It’s an opportunity for us to make a difference,” APWA Government Affairs Committee Chair Jeff May, the public works director for the City of Clive, IA, said about the release of the new policy priorities. “When you consider emergency management and the need to be able to address more and more federal disasters, the amount of money needed to address these issues is needed and very important to determining how we’re going to thrive as communities.”
To develop its public policy priorities for each new session of Congress, APWA regularly surveys its members to determine key concerns. The APWA Government Affairs Committee, comprised of public works experts from around the country, and APWA’s professional Government Affairs team, then develops each priority for review and approval by the APWA Board of Directors.
The policy priority areas for the 119th Congress are unchanged from the 118th Congress. However, points within each of them have been revised to reflect achievements over the past two years and declare legislative and regulatory changes still needed to best support our nation’s critical infrastructure and the public works workforce.
APWA’s Emergency Management Policy priority underscores how, as first responders, public works professionals serve a vital role in ensuring national critical infrastructure functions during emergencies. Its priorities include:
Mitigation
• Supporting the Safeguarding Tomorrow Through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act
• Enacting a five-year National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) authorization.
Communication and Coordination
• Including public works in the development, funding, and execution of telecommunication policies, programs, congressional and federal regulatory actions.
Streamlining Cybersecurity
• Including public works professionals – who have responsibility or direct oversight of systems that operate and protect assets, systems, and networks of the country’s critical infrastructure sectors –in the establishment, and implementation of national cybersecurity guidelines.
APWA’s Transportation Policy priority continues to work on infrastructure resilience, safety, and streamlining. It also zeros in on the infrastructure law:
• “We must work together to build upon IIJA’s opportunities to continue our momentum of retrofitting, operating, maintaining, and rebuilding all facets of our transportation infrastructure.”
• APWA strongly encourages the greatest possible flexibility and accommodation to local entities and in support of safety projects, including continuing to streamline permitting, reporting and other project requirements.
The Water Resiliency Policy priority targets IIJA, too, and the need for Congress to “start negotiations this session for predictable, and adequate long-term infrastructure funding at similar levels.” It also advocates for:
• Flexibility and funding levels that meet lead service line replacement needs.
• Creating incentives to reward proper asset management and help reverse the decline and failure of water infrastructure.
• Encouraging the federal government and industry to coordinate with state and local governments on projects, and
• Adhering to regulatory standards “informed by thorough research, peer-reviewed studies, and comprehensive cost-benefit analysis” surrounding Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Because of its critical nature, APWA urges the 119th Congress (in each of its public policy priorities) to address workforce issues.
“With our nation facing workforce shortages, workforce must be a high priority. As the leader in public works
education and credentialing programs, APWA encourages and values continual education and professional growth opportunities for those who build, operate, and maintain our nation’s infrastructure,” each priority says.
USSenators Reverend Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff announced new infrastructure investments in Atlanta’s historic Sweet Auburn and Centennial Yards neighborhoods.
Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock are delivering Federal resources through the US Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program, created by the bipartisan infrastructure law, to help revitalize historically underserved areas and improve mobility and connectivity –helping families get to work, school, the doctor’s office, and more.
“Senator Warnock and I will continue delivering upgrades to Georgia’s
infrastructure to make commuting safer and easier, connect all communities with access to work and education, and improve pedestrian access,”Sen. Ossoff said. “Our bipartisan infrastructure law will deliver long-overdue upgrades to Georgia’s infrastructure for years to come.”
“I am proud to secure this federal funding to help connect communities that have been historically divided,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Senator Ossoff and I will continue fighting for federal funding to help make Atlanta a safer, more connected community that better enables our neighbors and families to get around, and to get ahead.”
Please find a summary of Federal grants Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock are delivering below:
Sweet Auburn Works, Inc., in collaboration with the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District and the Atlanta Regional Commission, will advance Phase 2 of the Reconnecting Sweet Auburn project, which may include planning, design, and community engagement work. This initiative seeks to address decades of harm caused by the construction of interstates 75 and 85, which divided Atlanta’s historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood in the 1960s. The project aims to improve connectivity between Sweet Auburn and Downtown Atlanta and create a Complete Streets design for safer multimodal travel. $800,000
City of Atlanta The City of Atlanta, in partnership with CIM Group, will use $2,000,000 this funding to complete engineering design and environmental studies for the Centennial Yard Complete Streets Project. The project would include a 2.34-acre pedestrian and bicycle bridge and park in Downtown Atlanta and improve connectivity in “the Gulch” area. This project will create a safer, more connected Downtown Atlanta and serve as a central gathering space for residents and the workforce.
$2,000,000
Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock continue delivering resources to upgrade Georgia’s infrastructure. Last year, Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock previously delivered funding through the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant Programs to projects in Atlanta, Macon, Athens, and Savannah.
In January 2024, Sen. Ossoff announced $6,120,067 through the US Department of Transportation’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program to strengthen metro Atlanta’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
In 2023, Sens. Ossoff and Reverend Warnock delivered funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law to help local governments create and execute safety action plans aimed at improving road safety and preventing deaths and injuries to drivers and pedestrians.
The APWA Georgia Chapter held its Annual Mid-Winter Equipment show at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry, GA, on February 4, 2025. This marked the show’s 40th year after its early beginnings in a small barn at Macon’s Central City Park in the mid-1980s. Five companies have exhibited in all 40 shows – Wastebuilt (formerly Consolidated Disposal), Adams Equipment Company, Peach State Trucks, Reynolds Warren Equipment, and Tractor & Equipment Company. As in recent years, Environmental Products Group had the largest exhibit with a 4,200 square-foot space.
Recognized by the industry as the “Best Equipment Show in GA”, this event provides a great opportunity for attendees to gain information and see products, trucks, equipment, and services from Georgia and national manufacturers, dealers, and consultants. As a result, attendees see the tools and resources available to make their public works operations more productive and efficient as they serve their communities.
This year’s Show was the best ever! With 117 vendors, over 1,200 participants (including attendees, vendor representatives and Chapter volunteers), and a 7% increase in booth sales, 2025 was another record-setting year. In addition to record participation and revenue, this event once again included a second exhibit hall, the Chapter’s Annual Equipment RoadEO, and an outstanding “free lunch” for all. A new initiative, the exhibit passport, was also used to enhance vendor/attendee interaction by encouraging attendees to explore the total experience of two
exhibit halls and an ever-growing outdoor display area. Attendees who completed their passports were eligible for the grand prize drawing for two nights at The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort.
The Georgia Chapter would like to thank all the vendors, attendees, volunteers, event coordinators and fairgrounds staff who made this year’s
Show a great success. Building on our 2025 success, we look forward to the 2026 show on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the same location – for an even greater event next year!
For any questions or more information about the GA Chapter Equipment Show, please reach out to Stan Brown at stanbrownapwa@gmail.com
My name is Ella Terrell, and I am a graduate student at the University of Georgia (UGA), pursuing a master’s in Environmental Engineering, set to graduate in May 2025 — Go Dawgs! I received my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering in May 2024 from UGA and continued through the Double Dawgs Program because of the strong relationships and friendships I built here in Athens. Athens is more than just a college town – it’s a place with an incredible community, kind people, and yes, unmatched school spirit.
I’m originally from Alpharetta, Georgia, and outside of my studies, I stay busy with a few favorite pastimes. I’ve developed a love for running during college, especially half marathons, and I always make time for reading and spending time with family and friends. While my career is in engineering, I’ve always had a creative side – my dream job would be to become a movie screenwriter one day!
Currently, I am a Graduate Research Assistant at the Carl Vinson Institute of Government (CVIOG), where I perform my research and write my thesis. My research is focused on strengthening infrastructure resilience for Georgia’s local governments. My thesis, titled Enhancing Infrastructure Resilience: A Practical Framework for Georgia Local Government Implementation, is designed to help cities and counties, regardless of size, budget, or workforce, understand what resilience means and how to apply it
for public infrastructure. The framework outlines a range of strategies, from costeffective, easily implemented solutions to more advanced, long-term investments. It also identifies available grants, training programs, and key organizations that local governments can leverage to build more resilient infrastructure systems.
This research role, a collaboration between CVIOG and the College of Engineering, allows me to merge my technical expertise with government service. Under the guidance of my major professor, Dr. Stephan Durham, Interim Dean of the College of Engineering, and my CVIOG advisor, Walt McBride,
Senior Public Service Associate, I have gained invaluable experience –not only in research and policy but also in professional development and leadership. Everyday, I know my work will have a direct impact on the communities I have engaged with throughout my research, which reinforces my commitment to the work.
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One of the most rewarding aspects of my research has been the opportunity to engage directly with local government officials, including public works directors, city managers, and engineers. Through these conversations, I have gained valuable insight into the infrastructure challenges they face and the approaches they use to solve those problems. These interactions have also allowed me to form meaningful professional connections, which have been a highlight of my graduate experience. A particularly memorable moment was presenting my research at the Public Works Officials Executive Development Winter Conference. It was my first time speaking in front of such a large audience, and while it was initially nerve-wracking, my confidence in my work and the support from my advisors helped me deliver a successful presentation.
After graduation, I will be moving to Atlanta to begin my career as a Wastewater Process Engineer in Training at an engineering consulting firm. My internships throughout college, ranging from municipal and industrial water process engineering to sustainability initiatives at a major beverage company, helped solidify my passion for working with local governments. Municipal water and wastewater treatment plants may not always be in the spotlight, but they provide essential services that impact people’s daily lives. Being part of that mission is something I truly look forward to.
As I look ahead to the next chapter of my career, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to connect with public works professionals across Georgia and for my time at the University of Georgia. The challenges facing our infrastructure are complex, but through collaboration and strategic investment, we can build stronger, more resilient communities for the years to come.
As Chicago welcomes family and members of the American Public Works Association (APWA) to PWX from August 17–20, 2025, attendees have a unique opportunity to explore one of the most iconic urban environments in the country. Situated adjacent to McCormick Place ®, Chicago’s beautiful lakefront and vibrant downtown are right at your fingertips. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or urban explorer, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy during your stay.
Chicago’s lakefront is a jewel of the city, offering 18 miles of uninterrupted multiuse paths with access to Lake Michigan. This incredible space exists today thanks to the vision and determination of Aaron Montgomery Ward. Ward, a 19th-century retail magnate, used his own resources to fight legal battles against developers who sought to build along the lakefront. His tireless efforts ensured that Chicago’s shoreline remained “forever open, clear, and free.” Today, we benefit from his legacy with a breathtaking lakefront that combines recreation, culture, and nature. Few cities can boast such an expansive open space right next to a thriving downtown. While here, a quintessential way to experience the lakefront is by running, walking, or cycling along the Lakefront Trail.
This multi-use path provides stunning views of the lake and skyline with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the warm Chicago summer. Don’t miss the PWX 5K run/walk, which will take place along this iconic trail. Whether you’re racing, walking, or just cheering on colleagues, the energy and scenery are sure to be unforgettable.
Just north of downtown, Oak Street Beach is a must-visit destination for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or simply relaxing by the water. Adjacent to the beach is the Jardine Water Purification Plant, which has provided potable water to Chicago
land since 1968. Pair your visit with a stroll down the Magnificent Mile, Chicago’s premier shopping and dining district. While there, don’t miss the historic Chicago Water Tower, one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. To the south, you’ll find the famous Wrigley Building, with its white terra cotta façade illuminated at night – a perfect photo opportunity.
For a modern treat, visit the Starbucks Reserve Roastery on Michigan Avenue, which opened in 2019. This 35,000-squarefoot, multi-level coffee experience offers specialty drinks and a chance to explore the art of coffee in an extraordinary setting. If you’re looking for recreation, play a round of golf at the Sydney R. Marovitz
Golf Course. This public nine-hole course offers stunning views of Chicago and is located next to Lake Michigan.
The Chicago Riverwalk, which has received accolades from APWA, is another must-see. This scenic 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway offers diverse activities, from enjoying live music and dining at riverside restaurants to taking a Chicago architecture tour by boat. For the adventurous, consider kayaking the river during the day or joining a group paddle at night to experience the city lights from the water.
Arriving early for PWX? The 2025 Chicago Air and Water Show, August 16-17, will dazzle you with thrilling aerial displays and watercraft demonstrations along the lakefront. This iconic event is free and quintessentially Chicago.
Lincoln Park Zoo, a family-friendly destination, offers free admission and the chance to see wildlife in a picturesque urban setting. Additionally, summer in Chicago is synonymous with street festivals and baseball games, so be sure to check out the Cubs or White Sox schedules and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
No matter your interests, Chicago promises something for everyone.
Make the most of your PWX experience by exploring the city’s outdoor treasures and rich history and enjoying our great Chicago weather!
Jorge Cruz may be reached at 847.853.7623 or cruzj@wilmette.com.
Garbage collectors, often referred to as sanitation workers, are a very proud group. A few weeks after I started in the industry, my wife and I went to a restaurant with a co-worker and his wife. When the hostess told us it would be a 45-minute wait, my coworker said, “I pick up the garbage for the restaurant. Isn’t there anything you can do?” My wife and I looked at each other. I was thinking, we are garbage collectors, not doctors. This was the first time I realized the pride most garbage collectors have for the hard work they do.
Garbage collectors know that the daily route must and will get done today, whether they have a truck issue or staff goes home sick or for personal reasons. Every member of the solid waste collection team knows that every single cart at every single house must be collected.
That inspires a lot of urgency, as uncompleted work cannot just be rolled over to the next day.
Here in the Midwest, we have plenty of snow and ice, which results in the need for tire chains. One of the greatest examples of teamwork can be found in the garbage garage on snow days. Walking out into the garage, you are met with the sound of tire chains hitting the concrete – the entire work group is teaming up to help one another chain up their units before heading out to tackle the new falling snow.
This is another example of the collective effort that is a garbage collection. Although the typical day is spent by themselves, running their routes in a highly independent fashion, some tasks absolutely require more than one set of hands. They understand that their route is just one piece of the puzzle. No one goes in until the last one is done; this isn’t something that can wait until tomorrow. We are going to get this done today, and on some of the toughest, snowiest, iciest days, is when you see the interdependent culture of garbage collection really shine.
Accentuating the separate nature of the solid waste collection work group is that new employees are hired almost exclusively from the outside, as we require five years of solid waste collection experience, typically acquired at a local, private hauler.
Occasionally, refuse collectors will transfer or be promoted to other divisions within public works, but most stay in the solid waste division for their whole career. There is no break from trash, so garbage doesn’t take holidays. Garbage collection is a crucial essential service of public health, and therefore the garbage collector knows the importance of showing up on days most people are off work celebrating with family and friends. Not only is there a sacrifice of personal time, but the hours worked over the holidays are often longer as the workload intensifies when people generate more trash due to celebrations and increased shopping. While the city observes 13 holidays per
year, the solid waste collection team only shuts down for five of them to minimize the impact on our customers. For the other eight, the team is at work collecting garbage, recycling, and yard waste.
Safety is a top priority for the garbage profession. The dangers of the job range from potential injuries caused by lifting heavy items to traffic accidents. Despite these challenges, garbage collectors take immense pride in their work. Driving a 30-foot truck with a hydraulic arm that goes out 12 feet through dense residential streets, day in and day out, no matter the weather, taxes even the most skilled driver. A sense of toughness is prevalent among garbage collectors.
trucks on the road as fast as you safely can, running to and from the cans, and haul as much weight as you can. If you fall below this threshold, you will get a good razzing from your fellow workers, because again we are all in this together and it has to be done today.
Cultural awareness through garbage tells its own story. Garbage collectors can tell a lot about their community by what is in the trash; they may see a resident struggling with fitting their trash into their regular bin and offer advice on ways to recycle. They often develop meaningful relationships with the residents they serve. They observe patterns in the elderly community, becoming a community watchdog. They may notice unusual patterns of waste, such as items left out that may suggest someone might need assistance. They may be the only one an elderly resident gets to talk to that week when they approach the house to service a special consideration.
Garbage collectors become trusted members of the public works organization because they are reliably there week after week. Many residents will confide in their garbage collectors about their concerns or hopes for the community. Every street, every week, is a great way to report potholes, hanging limbs, slow-draining sewers, or other community issues that need to be reported for maintenance. In this sense, garbage collectors are more than just waste collectors; they are members of the community.
The culture among garbage collectors is one of resilience, teamwork, and community service. Most people never stop to think about the hard work, extra workdays, overloaded cans, daily challenges, or even the final destination for their garbage. Garbage collectors take pride in the community and the camaraderie they share doing a job that is essential for public health. It is no surprise that in Des Moines, resident satisfaction with their solid waste services ranks among the highest of all municipal services.
The culture among garbage collectors is one of resilience, teamwork, and community service.
Craig Shepherd may be reached at crshepherd@dmgov.org. Jonathan A. Gano may be reached at jagano@dmgov.org.
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