Douglasville Public Services Department Receives National Awards
Published on October 01, 2025
The Douglasville Public Services Department won 2 national awards from the Georgia Chapter of SWANA (Solid Waste Association of North America).
Biggest Safety Improvement Award
Recognized for their exemplary efforts to make solid waste services safer and more efficient for employees and customers. Initiatives included:
- Drive Through Thursday vehicle inspections to catch issues before they become hazards.
- Daily truck walk-arounds by operators to ensure equipment is fully operational.
- Extensive CDL training to build a skilled, professional workforce.
- Monthly safety meetings to review and refine safety practices.
- Modern safety technology installed on sanitation trucks.
These measures have reduced job-related accidents and boosted employee retention—making safety a top priority. Special shoutout to the Fleet Maintenance Team — Cris Johnson, Zach Turner, and David Lucas — for being instrumental in ensuring our equipment is always safe and reliable. The Public Services staff extends their thanks to the department supervisors and management teams who are instrumental in maintaining compliance with, and continually improving, these safety measures.
L-R: Public Services staff, Lesia Vick, Cris Johnson, Jeffery Smith of SWANA.
Solid Waste Worker of the Year – Administrative Support
Traditionally an individual award, this year SWANA recognized the entire Administrative Team for their exemplary customer service and operationalsupport of the Public Services Department. Their responsibilities range from customer account management and billing to inventory, asset tracking, and reconciliation—plus creative education efforts through customer outreach, technology investments, and countless volunteer hours.
L-R: Public Services Admin Staff, Christie DeBorde, Lesia Vick, Melissa Burdette, Angela Johnson, Tanisha Hanna.