XXJeff Greeson received a standing ovation from those attending the Nov. 17 Town Council meeting after Mayor Keith Volz announced that Greeson had been named the American Water Works Association Distribution Operator of the Year. XXThe award is given to fulltime employees of superintendent grade or below who have exhibited outstanding knowledge and innovation in the continuing operation of a water distribution system. The presentation was made at the AWWA annual conference in Raleigh on Nov. 16. XXGreeson has worked with the town for over 29 years, currently serving as Public Services Operations Manager. XXIn a statement read at the council meeting, Volz said that Greeson's immense knowledge of operations and history of the water system has proven to be beneficial to the town, as well as his fellow employees time and time again. XX“He is well liked and respected in the community,” Volz said. “He listens to concerns and demonstrates sound judgement while quickly resolving situations.” XXVolz went on to mention that Greeson has developed strategies to improve all facets of the town's water distribution system. He leads by example, Volz said, urging coworkers to go the extra mile to make certain a job is done the best possible way. XX“He continuously demonstrates his ability to effectively supervise and to train staff while maintaining a good working relationship with them.” XXGreeson oversees a crew of five fulltime employees and three temps. He handles many responsibilities, like setting new meters, overseeing the reading of meters for billing and putting up banners on Main Street. XX“It was a shock to me when my name was called,” Greeson said. “It's really an honor to accept it.” XXGreeson gave credit to Chuck Smith, Jamestown's public services director, for the honor, saying that he never would have received the award without Smith's guidance. XX“It's a privilege to represent the town of Jamestown and state of North Carolina,” Greeson added. “I'm blessed to serve the great folks in this community.” XX“Think about it whenever you turn the water on in your house,” Volz said, laughing.
