SoDACE Code Enforcement Officer of the Year The following is from the presentation of the 2014 SoDace Code Enforcement Officer of the Year Award. “It is my distinct honor to present the 2014 SoDACE Code Enforcement Officer of the Year Award. The recipient of this award is responsible for all aspects of code enforcement in their city. This person works closely with property owners and managers, banks and real estate professionals to ensure that properties are maintained. No matter whom this code enforcement officer interacts with everyone is treated with the same high level of courtesy and professionalism. This individual is very consistent in his approach with the public and has never been accused of playing favorites. As a result of this, citizens are seeking this person out as a resource to improve their neighborhoods. An extension of this individual’s responsibilities is to deal with disaster mitigation working with city staff to plan for emergencies and disasters. The unexpected and catastrophic blizzard in October 2013 resulted in this person stepping in and coordinating the city’s work with FEMA. Along with working with FEMA he coordinated the city’s clean-up effort which was no small feat when you are talking about coordinating contractors, property owners and others. Due to this his tireless efforts the city expects to receive the maximum allowed in reimbursements from FEMA and the State of South Dakota therefore lessening the financial impact to the city. Within this individual’s nomination were many accolades but this one stood out the most: “this person is one of the most dependable staff members and continually seeks to serve the community and greatly enhance the residents’ quality of life.” To me that is the perfect definition of what all Code Enforcement Officers should strive to be and do.
JUNE 2014
Dave Smith (left), receives the SoDACE Code Enforcement Officer of the Year Award from SoDACE Vice-President Scott Simianer. Along with the work for the city, he mentors two high school students who are doing internships with the City’s Planning & Inspections Department through their Career Development Class. The students are introduced to municipal government, building inspections and code compliance but this person takes things a step further and encourages them in life work force lessons (ie enjoy what you do and save for your future). This individual has a wealth of professional experience and these students are surely to have their lives enriched by having this mentor. He is an active member of his community and previously served as a Lawrence County Deputy Sheriff. I am honored to not only call this person a colleague, but also a friend and it gives me great pleasure and pride to present the 2014 SoDACE Code Enforcement Officer of the Year award to Dave Smith of Sturgis.”
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