Call order the February 17th, 2026 work session of the Clearwater City Council.

This time we'll move to item one on the agenda, and that is to present our February service awards.

First, we'd like to recognize we have three presentations.

And first, we would like to recognize a 30-year employee.

I'd like to call forward Timothy Chaplinski from the Parks and Recreation Department.

And ask the city.

His leadership, reliability, and broad knowledge made him a trusted and valuable resource wherever he was assigned.

Tim furthered his professional development at Pennell's Technical Education Center, earning his certified landscape apprentice credential.

His education and hands-on experience contributed to landscaping projects at major recreation facilities across the city of Clearwater.

A significant portion of Tim's career was dedicated to Clearwater Beach, where his work helped preserve the natural beauty and environmental quality of one of the city's most iconic locations, supporting its continued recognition as a premier destination.

Throughout his career, Tim consistently went above and beyond his regular duties.

He also played a crucial role in cleanup recovery efforts following storms, hurricanes, red tide events, and during the enforcement of COVID playground safety protocols.

Among his most challenging assignments was assisting with the respectful recovery and reburial at a cemetery following storm damage.

Through professionalism, hard work, and a sustained commitment to excellence, he advanced within the organization and was promoted in 2013 to his current role as stormwater supervisor.

Throughout his career, Greg has been a dependable and highly respected employee, consistently relied upon to deliver results.

Greg is widely recognized for his comprehensive understanding of stormwater maintenance and construction practices.

His leadership helps the city infrastructure and maintain safely and efficiently while protecting public safety and environmental resources.

Colleagues regularly seek his guidance, value his experience, professionalism, and steady approach to problem solving.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Greg has demonstrated a strong commitment to the community involvement through his participation in initiatives such as United Way Day of Caring, Clearwater Neighborhoods Day, the Citizens Academy, and other community-focused events.

Greg's 35 years of service reflect a career defined by dedication, accountability, and pride in public service.

His contributions exemplify the City of Clearwater's commitment to high performing government and superior public service and have a lasting positive impact on both the organization and the community it serves.

Thank you, sir.

Thank you, Mr.

Congratulations, Greg.

Thank you, Greg, for your commitment to our citizens and also your obvious uh dedication to the Tampa Band Race.

You've been in there hanging with him today.

So a loyal fan.

Next we'll move to our employee of the month award for February 2026.

And I'd like to call forward Jeff Cater from Utility Customer Service.

Jeff exemplifies the highest standards of public service and leadership.

He consistently oversees an efficient, accurate, and dependable meter reading operation, and his leadership is most evident when conditions are challenging.

Recently, the department experienced a convergence of issues, including a short month, scheduled employee vacations, unexpected call-outs that significantly reduce staffing levels.

Rather than allowing service levels or data integrity to be impacted, Jeff immediately stepped in.

He donned his high visibility vest and worked in the field, effectively performing the duties of three employees.

Throughout the week, he ran routes, collected water and gas meter readings, and ensured uninterrupted daily operations, all while continuing to manage schedules, direct his remaining staff, attend required meetings, and remain available to support office staff with questions and problem solving.

This was not a single day response, but a sustained hands-on leadership during a critical period.

What sets Jeff apart is a strong sense of ownership and accountability.

He does not view operational challenges as someone else's responsibility.

Instead, he leads from the front, models reliability, and ensures the city's commitment to accuracy, safety, and customer service are upheld, even when doing so requires extraordinary personal efforts.

Quite simply, Jeff is a superhero for the department.

Jeff's actions directly support the City of Clearwater strategic plan by advancing high-performing government and superior public service.

Through his continued commitment to operational excellence, data integrity, and team support, he ensured reliable service delivery while responsibly stewarding CD resources.

His leadership during this challenging period protected service continuity, upheld public trust, and demonstrated how strategic priorities are translated into meaningful results for residents and customers.

Jeff's work, ethic, humility, and dedication reflect the City of Clearwater's values.

His actions ensured unerrupted service, supported his team, and demonstrated exceptional leadership under pressure.

Thanks, Jeff.

Well, Jeff, I don't think anybody's ever referred to me as a superhero of my department.

So well a high compliment to you.

I like you so much.

Congratulations and thank you.

Okay, now we have some fire oaths of office to our city clerk to administer.

So the first one I'd like to call forward William Fisher.

The assistant fire marshal for swearing.

I see.

The Constitution and Government of the United States.

And the state of Florida.

And the Charter and Laws.

And the Charter and Laws.

Of the City of Clearwater.

That I'm duly qualified to hold office.