September/October 2006
Text Box: Serving Kenosha Since 1895

“Providing and Protecting Kenosha’s Greatest Natural Resource…Water”
Text Box: The Water Utility sets aside one evening each year to honor its employeesduring its annual service recognition banquet. This is a tradition that was first established by the former General Manager of the Water Utility, Mr. O. FredNelson. The banquet is not only widely attended by Utility employees and their spouses, but members of the Board of Water Commissioners and several retired Water Utility employees and their spouses all look forward to attending this event each October. The evening normally begins with a social hour to allow attendees to intermingle and try their hands at some of the fun-filled activities that are offered. After socializing for awhile, attendees are treated to an exquisite dinner. Following dinner, service awards are presented to employees by the Chairman of the Board of Water Commissioners and the General Manager to honor them for their years of service. Each year, one employee is given special recognition by being presented with the “Employee of the Year” award. To receive this special award, employees must first be nominated by one of their peers. A selection committee comprised of former “Employee of the Year” award winners is then convened to review all of the nominations and determine who will be the next employee to receive this prestigious award. During the banquet, award winners are then presented with the coveted “water drop” plaque. The “Outstanding Service Support Organization” award is also presented during the evening to the organization that has provided most outstanding service and support to the Water Utility during the preceding year. A more recent tradition has been to combine the banquet with a particular theme and allow attendees to dress the part. Past themes have consisted of: a spy theme; a ride aboard a cruise ship; and a trip back in time to the fabulous 1950’s. This year was no different as attendees were encouraged to don theirwestern garb and travel back to the 1860’s to attend a country hoedown and old fashioned barbecue.

46th Annual  Service Recognition Banquet

Utility Welcomes New Employees

For the last several months, there has been almost no turnover in the employees at the Utility.  The Water Utility has always prided itself in having a very low employee turnover rate and much of this can be attributed to family friendly atmosphere at the Utility.  If employees are comfortable in their surroundings, they tend to stay in one spot.  At times, employees are presented with better opportunities outside of the Utility and have no other alternative but to move on to another job or department within the City of Kenosha.  Recently, there have been a few personnel changes at the Utility.

Welcome to the Water Utility family!
Text Box: United Way Fund Raising Campaign This year the Water Utility collected a total of $4,130 for the United Way. The Engineering Division had the highest participation with 78 percent, while Water Production Division was the most generous, giving an average of $65.50 per employee. Thanks to all those who contributed to this year’s campaign!