Last week, the Woodland City Council passed a proclamation declaring May 18 to 24 as “Public Works Week.”

Public works services serve as an integral part of the community and the everyday lives of citizens, according to the proclamation passed during the Tuesday, May 13, city council meeting.

The theme this year is “People, Purpose, Presence,” which highlights three ideals that motivate public work professionals to serve in their communities every day.

“Meeting the needs of people is what gives Public Works its sense of purpose. Many times, Public Works professionals will never meet those whose lives have been impacted, because when things are going right, no one knows that Public Works is there. Yet, with or without fanfare, Public Works is ever present, working in the background to advance quality of life for all,” according to the staff report.

According to the staff report, the Woodland Public Works Department plays a key role in planning, building, and maintaining infrastructure and facilities that allow current and future generations to enjoy a higher quality of life.

Public works services include: potable water production and distribution; storm water and drainage management; wastewater collection and treatment; state-certified water quality testing and industrial pretreatment programs; operation and maintenance of streets and roads; street lighting, traffic signals, street signs, and road markings; and operation and maintenance of Woodland’s fleet and facilities.

The staff report also highlights that in recent years, the city’s growth, reduction in resources, aging infrastructure, and restrictive environment have challenged the public works department to be able to provide these services in a cost-effective manner. But regardless of that, they have been able to consistently provide quality services.

“The services provided by our Public Works Department contribute to the health, safety, and comfort of our community members, and to the beauty and cleanliness of our city,” states the proclamation.

This week serves as a way to recognize and honor all of the Public Works employees for their efforts and contributions to our every day lives.