Release Date: Dec. 10, 2024
CHARLESTOWN, Ind. – City of Charlestown Utility Director Tim Crawford was recently honored as the Wastewater Operator of the Year Indiana Section of the American Water Works Association.
Presented at the AWWA conference in French Lick, Crawford was recognized for his efforts to rehabilitate and revitalize not only the system but the entire department. The award was presented to an operator of 10,000 residents or fewer.
“Since joining our team, Tim has transformed the system and his department,” said Mayor Treva Hodges. “We no longer fear rainy events because we know that Tim and his team of highly qualified staff have the plant under control.”
Crawford inherited a failing system and one that an Indiana Department of Environmental Management inspector described as, “Beyond its useful life.” Since then, the current plant is not only under control, but Crawford is leading the construction of a new, state-of-the-art treatment plant that will double the city’s capacity.
“I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation for this acknowledgment,” said Crawford. “This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team. I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the Mayor, Clerk-Treasurer (Donna Coomer), and the remarkable staff of Charlestown; without their contributions, this success would not have been attainable.”
The construction of a new Water Reclamation Facility that is expected to be completed in 2025.
“Let’s face it, wastewater operators rarely receive much community recognition,” said Hodges. “They function behind the scenes to keep our cities safe in ways that most residents rarely consider. We are fortunate to have Tim on our team.”