Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The city of Presque Isle recently was recognized for its outstanding safety record. The Star City received the Maine Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Standards’ Safety and Health Award for Public Employees (SHAPE) for the municipality’s efforts in maintaining a safe work environment.
David E. Wacker, director of the Workplace Safety & Health Division, was on hand to present the award during City Council’s April 5 session. Wacker acknowledged that Jim Kaiser, Forum director for the city of Presque Isle, was instrumental in working with his division in gathering data and performing the necessary checks that led up to the award presentation.
“Commissioner Laura Fortman, Maine Department of Labor, hopes all workers go home with all their fingers and toes,” said Wacker. “This award is not given lightly. Presque Isle is only the fourth city in the state to receive this recognition.”
The award, which is renewable every two years, is based on businesses and municipalities maintaining a safe work environment. Records and work practices are reviewed and recommendations made to help departments improve work standards, with the award presented to those receiving the best results for their efforts.
“It’s a challenge to keep going on this and to keep the standard going,” said Wacker. “I want to be able to come back (to the city) in two years and renew this award.”
“This goes to the ‘best of the best,’ is the easiest way to say it. It’s been great for us and the city,” said Wacker.
City Manager Jim Bennett said this award demonstrates the work ethic carried out by those who serve the Star City. The award also benefits taxpayers in the form of reduced insurance claims and the like.
“This goes back to the citizens in savings. By preventing injuries, it saves lost time and compensation. This reflects an attitude and passion for doing the right thing,” said Bennett. “This reflects the fact everyone is trying to find every way we can to save a dollar and have the government you want us to have.”
Accepting the award from Wacker, on behalf of the city, were Kaiser and City Council Chair Jennifer Trombley.
