When everything is working the way it should—water flows, trash disappears, and roads are clear—it’s easy to overlook the team making it all happen. But behind the scenes, the Public Works Department is hard at work every day ensuring Grottoes stays clean, safe, and running smoothly.
What Does Public Works Do?
You might see the neon yellow shirts and town trucks out and about, but the scope of work Public Works handles is much broader than many realize. Here are just a few of their responsibilities:
- Water and Sewer Maintenance: From fixing leaks and flushing hydrants to maintaining pump stations and installing new water lines, this team ensures our drinking water is clean and our sewer systems are functioning. Public Works regularly tests the town’s water supply and submits samples to ensure it meets all safety & quality standards.
- Reading and Replacing Water Meters: The team regularly reads residential and commercial water meters to ensure accurate billing, and replaces meters when they become outdated or malfunction. They have been upgrading meters all over town to radio read, which will improve speed and accuracy for everyone.
- Street Maintenance & Repairs: Whether it’s filling potholes, replacing signage, or clearing debris after storms, they keep our roads safe and passable.
- Staffing the Brush Site on 20th Street: Two Public Works team members are pulled from their regular duties—or work overtime—to operate the brush site from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on the first Saturday of each month and the following Wednesday. Residents should check the Town Calendar to confirm scheduled dates and are reminded not to dump outside of posted hours.
- Mowing Public Spaces: From parks and playgrounds to town-owned lots and road shoulders, the team keeps green spaces neat and safe for all to enjoy.
- Snow and Ice Removal: When winter hits, they’re the ones pre-treating and clearing roads—often in the early hours or through the night.
- Parks & Facilities Upkeep: They maintain playgrounds, repair park structures, prep fields for community events, and help with setup for town activities.
- Operate and Maintain the Wastewater Treatment Plant: The Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator is part of the public works team, and is responsible for running the Town’s wastewater treatment plant, including monitoring daily operations, performing maintenance, and ensuring compliance with state regulations. They’ve also overseen major improvement projects like lagoon dredging and are preparing for a UV disinfection system upgrade that will increase treatment capacity to 800,000 gallons per day.
- Pump and Maintain Septic Tanks: In Grottoes, every home and business uses a septic tank, and the Public Works crew plays a key role in keeping these systems functioning properly. Team members routinely pump septic tanks throughout town using town-owned equipment or by coordinating with contractors.
How You Can Help
Public Works does a lot—but they can’t do it alone. Here are some ways residents can pitch in:
- Report issues promptly: A leaking hydrant, downed tree, or pothole can often be resolved quickly if reported to Town Hall. When a call comes in, the team is notified immediately. However, they must prioritize emergencies and ongoing projects. Rest assured—they’ll take care of it as soon as they’re able. You can also report via the CONTACT US page on our website (do not use for emergencies).
- Follow brush site guidelines: Be sure to drop off only approved materials and follow posted hours and signage.
- Respect work zones: Slow down and give workers space when you see them out on the road.
- Keep storm drains clear: Never dump yard waste, trash, or leaves in culverts & ditches—this causes blockages and backups.
- Septic Tank Maintenance: Help protect your system—and the crew—by never flushing wipes (even “flushable” ones), grease, feminine products, or harsh chemicals. These items can clog pipes, damage equipment, and create costly backups.
Appreciating the Team
The next time you see a Public Works crew fixing a water line in the heat/cold, or clearing branches after a storm, give them a wave or a thank-you. They may work behind the scenes, but their impact is front and center in our daily lives. We think of them as everyday heroes here in Grottoes.
