Public Works Division Earns National and State Awards

Published on October 03, 2024

Treating millions of gallons of wastewater daily for an entire year is an incredible achievement. However, doing it year after year while meeting rigorous standards set by the Clean Water Act is a testament to operational excellence on an entirely different level.

In recognition of their performance during 2023, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) has honored the Water Pollution Control (WPC) team with three prestigious awards in 2024:

• Platinum Award – Kaw Point Treatment Plant: Recognizing five consecutive years of full compliance with Clean Water Act permits. A plant must achieve Gold for five straight years to achieve a Platinum award.
• Platinum Award – Plant 14: Achieving full compliance over five years, joining Kaw Point in this prestigious category.
• Gold Award – Plant 3: Celebrating a full year of no permit violations.

These awards, based on the team’s outstanding compliance during the 2023 calendar year, reflect their commitment to operational excellence across multiple facilities, ensuring public health and environmental safety remain top priorities. The WPC team works 24/7 to maintain these high standards, with daily lab tests ensuring they remain in full compliance. There’s no room for error in maintaining the quality of wastewater treatment.

The Kansas Water Environment Association (KWEA) also presented the Large Collection System (Category III) Award to the Unified Government of Wyandotte County in 2024. This honor recognizes excellence in operations and maintenance, safety and training, improvements, innovative ideas, planning and design, and service in wastewater collection systems. The award was presented at the KWEA Annual Conference, where WPC employees attended to receive additional training and learn from peers. This opportunity for ongoing professional development helps the team maintain industry leadership and meet the rigorous standards required for these awards.

“Our team continues to uphold an impressive standard of excellence,” said Jeff Miles, WPC Director. “This recognition speaks to the hard work and dedication of our employees. Their efforts ensure we protect the environment and safeguard public health daily.”

For more details on the efforts of WPC and their contributions to environmental services, visit wycokck.org/WPC.