GUY CARROZZO -- Mayor’s Column
This week, I have asked Public Works Director Bill Ault to tell readers
about one area of his department, the Field Services Division. He will
focus on the tasks assigned to Field Services and provide you with a
perspective on the scope of their duties. I think you will be amazed by
the diversity of their daily jobs. Some may actually surprise you!
Following are Ault’s comments, which were also shared at a recent
Fountain Valley Rotary Breakfast, during which special tribute was paid
to the Fountain Valley Field Services Division as “unsung heroes”:
As a division of the Public Works Department, Field Services is comprised
of the Streets, Landscape, Water, and Fleet divisions, which work
together to maintain the city’s infrastructure and optimize our urban
habitat.
This tall order includes timely, ongoing maintenance of public streets,
sidewalks and turfed surfaces so they are safe and attractive year-round.
From sweeping streets to cleaning the city’s 550 catch basins to
maintaining the sewer system, the Streets Division’s proactive approach
protects public health and community aesthetics. Their careful upkeep of
curbs, gutters and sidewalks enables direct, unimpaired storm drainage
and pedestrian safety. Field Services provides smooth, safe roadways,
which protect our vehicles from major potholes and enables us to move
through and around this city in an efficient manner.
The Landscape Division cares for Fountain Valley’s urban forest -- more
than 12,500 trees grow within public rights of way. These same workers
water, fertilize and tend to 137 acres of turfed parkland, 36 athletic
fields and 17 playgrounds on an ongoing basis.
The Water Department operates in conjunction with other agencies and
suppliers to provide water to its customers at one of the lowest rates in
Orange County. This division is responsible for providing a dependable
and safe water supply; maintenance and construction of the domestic water
distribution system; meter installation and service; and water meter
reading. The Water Division consists of three sections that work together
to ensure these goals are met.
The Fleet Division is an unseen operating force, providing maintenance
for all of our city’s vehicles. From police motorcycles and cars to fire
trucks, street sweepers, tractors and other work vehicles, the Fleet
Division maintains the vehicles, enabling all city departments to
efficiently serve the community.
Through their meticulous attention to countless environmental factors,
the Field Services workers enable us to function safely and comfortably
in our complex urban surroundings -- in both ordinary and extraordinary
circumstances. Field Services crews provide an attractive,
well-maintained environment that sets Fountain Valley apart and truly
make it a nice place to live.
* GUY CARROZZO is mayor of Fountain Valley. BILL AULT is the city’s
director of public works.
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