Poplar Bluff is shaped not only by its elected officials, but also by the dedicated efforts of its citizens. Quite often, it is these folks whose behind-the-scenes contributions go unnoticed, as spotlight is rarely sought to illuminate their achievements.
But at last night's city council meeting, Mayor Ed DeGaris recognized two local residents who quietly go above and beyond in their roles to help in the betterment of Poplar Bluff, Municipal Utilities general manager Bill Bach and Daily American Republic reporter Donna Farley.
DeGaris first recognized long-time city employee Bill Bach. Bach has served 15 years as the general manager for Municipal Utilities, and according to DeGaris, always makes decisions with Poplar Bluff's best interests in mind.
"We are very fortunate to have a man with his knowledge and experience in this position," DeGaris said. "However, when complimented, Mr. Bach will always say 'it's a team effort' between his employees, the utility board and himself."
DeGaris mentioned a few things Bach has done over the years to improve the quality of life for city residents, including saving $70 million on the government-mandated lagoon updates.
"Mr. Bach worked with Smith and Company to plan the necessary improvements at a cost of $20 million. This sounds like a lot, but the alternative was $90 million," DeGaris said.
Bach also worked to keep a necessary electrical rate increase to a minimum, and kept what could have been a 20 percent spike, to 6 percent; a 14 percent savings.
Most recently, Bach worked on bringing the city's water meters into the 21st Century, replacing meters that were more than 20 years old. The update works to ensure all 2.5 million gallons of water are treated and accounted for daily, making it safe for public use.
"Even with all these recent improvements, Poplar Bluff citizens are still in the top 10 of lowest rate payers in Missouri," DeGaris said. "As we move into the future and continue to grow, I feel Bill always has the city's best interests at heart."
DeGaris then recognized Farley, who has covered the city council and several municipal boards since November 2014. She took over the city council beat when the controversy surrounding former city manager Heath Kaplan was starting. Farley dug into the story exposing many questionable acts by Kaplan. During that time, she experienced many negative comments, backlash and personal attacks for her work.
"I often felt so bad for the way she had been treated, I would call the next day and apologize for what happened," DeGaris said. "She would simply say 'thanks' and tell me not to worry about it."
DeGaris said Farley's tactfulness in how she handled these situations represented her fellow workers, her employer and herself with dignity and honor.
"Donna has a big heart and shows compassion for her co-workers and the citizens of our town. In a professional manner, she continued to report the facts as she understood them," he said.
DeGaris told Farley "many times a person will do good things and not see any acknowledgement for it. Don't let that dishearten you; the world is a better place with your good deeds, attitude and love and concern for all.
"Keep up the good work."