Township Recognizes Excellence in Service Awards

At the close of each year, the Township recognizes those staff that provided exemplary service to the Livingston community. The 3rd Annual Employee Recognition Program’s goal is to recognize significant contributions in the areas related to improvement of operation, cost savings, promoting team spirit, improvement to the image and reputation of the Township, and customer satisfaction. Employees, both full time and part time, are nominated by their colleagues and the selection committee is made up of Township employees. There are six categories of Awards including Employee of the Year, Customer Service, Teamwork, Innovation, Sunshine, and Pride.

Employee of the Year was Janet Traettino, Nurse Supervisor, whose accomplishments throughout the year and exemplary performance made a significant contribution to the Township. The criteria for this award includes serving as a positive role model for others, excellent work ethic, demonstrating a high level of expertise, and handling challenging situations with confidence in order to get the job done. “The development of an adult immunization program at low or no cost to Township residents was a tremendous accomplishment,” said Township Manager Michele E. Meade “and this coupled with Janet’s leadership in community health issues, her work for the Township’s emergency shelter and her caring and professional manner is a winning combination.”

The award for Customer Service went to Karen Sullivan, Purchasing Manager.  Karen’s customers are all the Township departments who she assists with purchasing goods and services on a daily basis. “Whether it’s a routine, everyday purchase or a multi-year, multi-million dollar contract, Karen always puts everyone at ease, clearly explains the complex purchasing laws and gets the job done. And she always does so with a smile, a pleasant manner and complete courtesy,” Meade explained.

The Teamwork Award recognizes employees who cooperate with each other to create a well-run group where each member understands their individual roles and responsibilities that in the end enables the team to accomplish their goals, project, tasks, in a timely professional manner. The 2012 Teamwork Award went to the Sue Strande, Judy Reimer, Helen Corrado & Kasey Campbell of the Comptroller’s Office. “For three consecutive years, the Comptroller’s Office has undergone the annual audit examination without so much as a footnote in the audit report. This is an outstanding achievement considering the volume of transactions that must be processed and the extreme diligence of the auditor’s staff.” Meade added.

The Innovation Award went to Kevin Jones, Public Works Maintenance Specialist, for his manufacture of replacement parts for Public Works equipment saving the Township money. “Just one example of the multitude of work Kevin does is the removal of rusted truck bodies/salt spreader units, fabricating replacement parts and extending the life of the dump body saving $60,000 each time,’” Meade enthused.  “Wow!”

The Township’s Sunshine Award went to Deputy Municipal Court Administrator Brenda Scott-Porch who always has a smile on her face and a pleasant word for everyone she encounters.  “Her smile is contagious and you always feel good after talking to Brenda and hearing her positive response to whatever life has to share,” said Meade.

The Pride Award was presented to Tim Roetman, Program Supervisor for Camp, Youth and Teen who demonstrates a passion for his work every time he is out there with Livingston kids.  He is professional, dedicated to excellence and always shines a positive light on the Township.  He shows his pride in his work by giving 100% to every endeavor and making our youth programs a smashing success.  “Tim takes pride in being a public employee as he works to improve the lives of Livingston kids,” said Meade.

“I am very proud of our Township employees,” said Meade.  “They work hard every day to make the Livingston community a better place to live, to work and to do business. In times of economic stress, where each dollar is stretched to its maximum capacity to provide quality service to Livingston residents, it is especially important to recognize those employees who are expected to do more work with fewer resources. A Township’s prosperity is measured by the dedication of its staff, the diversity of skills, experience, and willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty.”

For more information on Township programs and services visit www.livingstonnj.org. The Municipal Building address is 333-357 South Livingston Ave. Offices are open between 8:30-4:30 pm, Monday thru Friday, except for holidays. The Senior, Youth & Leisure Services and Health Department are located at the Senior Community Center on 204 Hillside Ave.