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.