OKEECHOBEE – At their May 22 meeting, Okeechobee County Commissioners proclaimed May 18-24 as National Public Works Week in Okeechobee County.

Public Works Director Darren Brown thanked the commission for giving the department the resources they need to provide their services to the community.

The proclamation states: “National Public Works Week was initiated in 1960 by the American Public Works Association, and its purpose is to raise public awareness about the everyday contributions of public works to communities and highlight the importance of public works in planning, building, managing, and operating infrastructure.

“The year 2025 marks the 65th annual National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association.

“This awareness recognizes the vital role of public works professionals in building and maintaining the infrastructure and services that support healthy, safe, and comfortable communities.

“Public Works services provided in Okeechobee County are an integral part of our citizens’ everyday lives; and during emergencies, such as hurricanes, Public Works remains an essential service with its dedicated employees working while others remain safe in their homes.

“Public Works focuses on providing the most effective and efficient operations that are critical for our community such as maintenance and construction of roads, traffic management, stormwater and solid waste, and these services contribute to the public health, safety, and quality of life for our citizens.”