As a vital part of Prescott Water & Light, this department carries an immense and varied set of responsibilities. Their jurisdiction is expansive, covering not only the infrastructure within the city limits but also a rural water system that extends to a 10-mile radius from town. This team truly wears many hats, handling everything from the water plant and wastewater operations to the continual maintenance of the vast network of pipes and systems that make it all work. Their job requires them to be ready to “change gears in a moment’s notice,” tackling everything from routine upkeep to emergency repairs.
Leading this crew is Maintenance Supervisor Charles “Bubba” Ledbetter, who emphasizes the team’s deep commitment to their calling. “We take pride in all of our work,” Ledbetter states, a sentiment that drives their daily efforts. The nature of their job is inherently unpredictable. Team member Barry Marks said, “Every day is different in this department. It’s an adventure every day.” This ever-changing environment demands a crew that is not only skilled but also combines its forces seamlessly. “We have a good crew here,” Ledbetter adds. “We all get along and work well together.”
A crucial aspect of their work is direct interaction with the public, often in stressful situations. Whether dealing with a water main break or a sewer issue, the crew's internal communication is key. Team member Tony Bozeman explains that a big part of the job is “the understanding part. You have to be able to talk to customers and help them understand the issues between their property and the city property.” The ultimate goal, Ledbetter says, is to always strive for a positive outcome. "We try to leave the customer with a smile on their face, and we try to leave them with an understanding of all the important info and any next steps that are needed.” This focus on both technical proficiency and customer care, all while making safety their “number one priority,” defines the department’s ethos.
The work of the Prescott Water & Wastewater Department is fundamental to public health and the smooth functioning of our community. They are the unseen heroes ensuring that a vital, complex system operates reliably day in and day out.
Join SWARK.Today as we offer a heartfelt salute to the dedicated team at the Prescott Water & Wastewater Department. Their diligence and expertise make a profound difference. Their names are as follows:
- Charles (Bubba) Ledbetter - Maintenance Supervisor
- Jacob Russell - Water Plant Operator
- Scott Vanhorn - Wastewater Operator
- Jermey Loe - Water and Wastewater Maintenance
- Philip Purple - Water and Wastewater Maintenance
- Tony Bozeman - Water and Wastewater Maintenance
- Berry Marks - Water and Wastewater Maintenance
Stay tuned for our next SWARK Service Spotlight to learn more about the invaluable public servants who make our communities better every day.