HomeMy Public PortalAbout2020-11-10 TM Remarks - Retirement-Gerald S. Mee JrREMARKS FROM TOWN MANAGER MICHAEL J. DRISCOLL
RETIREMENT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC WORKS GERALD S. MEE, J
NOVEMBER 10, 2020 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Mr. President, Councillors, audience here and at home, I would like to offer a few words
regarding Gerald S. Mee, Jr., Superintendent of Public Works as he has informed that he will be
retiring.
A little history, deserves to be told
Gerry's career spans 31 years, who served (above and beyond) honorable service to this
community.
Gerry started his career with the Department of Public Works on May 15, 1989, he served as
Deputy Superintendent of the Department and was appointed as the Superintendent on
September 23, 1993, some 27 years ago!
The Department of Public Works is a vital branch of the Town's Administration, under the
categories of: Forestry, Highway, Parks, Recycling Center, Water & Sewer, Cemetery, Central
Motors, Buildings and Property. Along with Snow Removal, Street Lighting, Stormwater and
Waste Disposal/Recycling and Traffic signal Maintenance and Weighs and Measures.
Over the years, Gerry's passion to serve and innovative changes was a constant that benefited
citizens with delivery of services and safety in Watertown.
Increased emphasis on homeland security and emergency planning
DPW is part of the Public Safety Team — this department takes action right alongside of Police
and Fire during all public safety events.
We remember on April 18th and early Friday morning April 19th, 2013, our Watertown found
itself connected to tragedy.
Behind the scenes, the gentleman who directed the DPW - Mr. Mee and the employees of the
Department of Public Works — didn't want to be recognized for their role in keeping us safe. It
was no small feat, closing Watertown's 4 square miles of roads and performing various others
tasks while the town was shuttering its doors and other agencies were preparing to take action to
assist with town during the manhunt.
That's Gerry - shouldering his responsibilities to his staff and the community admirably and
always advocating for the improvement of services in our community.
The Team performed and continues to perform their duties with utmost professionalism - day in
and day out without regard for their own personal safety.
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REMARKS FROM TOWN MANAGER MICHAEL J. DRISCOLL
RETIREMENT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC WORKS GERALD S. MEE, JR.
NOVEMBER 10, 2020 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Gerry, you have worked very hard and tirelessly for the citizens of Watertown to provide the
highest level of services for the community and improve the quality of life and spirit for the
residents who work and live in Watertown.
Gerry's legacy is all around us, broadly speaking, enhancements to our community that everyone
enjoys.
We all agree, Watertown has bragging rights for its delicious, clean Water!...And excellent snow
removal — we are the envy of surrounding communities!
Job well done
I applaud your diligence and dedication to the citizens of this community over the years and
those efforts are very much appreciated.
We wish you continued health and happiness upon your retirement.
On a personal note, we have worked together all these years as colleagues but more important to
me is our friendship. I wish you all the best in the future.
Thank you, Gerry — for a job well done!
The Town of Watertown is a better place due to your efforts.
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