VALDOSTA — Valdosta Mayor John Gayle and City Engineer Pat Collins honored Shawn Massey and Douglas Stevenson as the June 2015 Employees of the Month at the June 11 City Council meeting. Massey and Stevenson each received a framed certificate and a check for $200, and their names appear on a plaque displayed in City Hall.

Massey brings a wealth of knowledge through his nine years of service with the Stormwater Division, where he started as a Light Equipment Operator and is currently a Heavy Equipment Operator. He assists with making sure the stormwater system operates properly by re-grading ditches, removing trees, and inspecting, cleaning and repairing catch basins, headwalls, storm pipes and other structures throughout the city.

Stevenson started working with the Stormwater Division in 2004 as a Laborer and is currently a Crew Leader. Stevenson assists with planning daily activities, keeping records, supervising crews and maintaining the stormwater system. He also serves the Stormwater Division using his careful attention to detail and versatility in working with brick, block and other materials.

Massey and Stevenson recently took the lead on the new gateway sign project on North Valdosta Road. The original project was estimated to cost $34,490, which included $19,490 for the landscaping (utilizing a grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation) and $15,000 for signage. After receiving a quote of $20,000 for the sign, staff decided to build the sign in-house to reduce the cost.

Staff took 24 days to build the sign at a material cost of only $6,283, which allowed the city to purchase the materials for two additional signs. Massey and Stevenson not only saved the city a significant amount of money, but also demonstrated themselves to be dedicated public servants who serve with excellence.

City of Valdosta