In recognition of Broken Arrow's more than 400 public works employees and in line with the American Public Works Association's National Public Works Week theme, "People, Purpose, Presence," the City of Broken Arrow honors those who keep the city functioning smoothly.

Mayor Debra Wimpee and the City Council have joined other municipalities nationwide in recognizing May 18-24, 2025, as National Public Works Week.

The Mayor's proclamation states, "Whereas public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities, and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and public health, high quality of life, and well-being of the people of Broken Arrow, and whereas, these infrastructure, facilities, and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, who are engineers, managers, and employees at all levels of government and the private sector, who are responsible for rebuilding, improving, and protecting our nation's transportation, water supply, water treatment, and solid waste systems, public buildings, and other structures and facilities effective for our citizens."

Mayor Wimpee urges residents to recognize the profound impact that public works professionals have on our daily lives. Their work safeguards health, ensures safety, and enhances the quality of life for everyone in Broken Arrow.

The city's public works division, the Operations Group, includes the Utilities Department, Community Development, Solid Waste/Recycling,  Engineering/Construction, Parks/Recreation, Emergency Management, and Streets/Stormwater.

The "People, Purpose, Presence" theme emphasizes the ideals motivating public works professionals to serve their communities daily. When asked about their jobs, it often becomes clear that these individuals come to work each day with pride and a strong sense of purpose.

"We appreciate the community backing us up, giving us support, voting for our bonds, and giving us the money to do our jobs," said Jerry Waymire, who works in the Streets Department as a truck driver. "I live in Broken Arrow and grew up here, so I enjoy working here and seeing the fruits of my labor. We appreciate everybody's patience and support while doing our projects."

Public works professionals often do not have the opportunity to meet the individuals whose lives are positively affected by their efforts; nevertheless, individuals like Water Plant Operator Jed Beloncik take pride in providing the city with drinking water.

"Thank you so much for your support," Beloncik said. It means a lot to me to treat clean, potable drinking water for the 120,000 people who live in this great city. Thank you!"

These professionals work tirelessly behind the scenes to improve everyone's quality of life, even if their contributions often go unnoticed.

"We appreciate everything you all do to support us, and we work hard to get out here and support you all, too. Thank you very much," said Amory Fuller, construction supervisor for the Stormwater Department.