At the May 16 Special Presentations, Councilman Larry Roth recognized the hard work and dedication that the Homestead Public Services (HPS) Energy linemen put into their work serving the Homestead community last year, particularly following Hurricane Irma.
“I can’t say how many people in the community have expressed their thanks to me for the rapid service [you provided during Hurricane Irma],” Councilman Roth said. “It’s a testament to the work you did for our community. We’re here tonight to recognize you for your work and your efforts…whether it’s a hurricane or whether it’s somebody running into a powerline and knocking out power to a neighborhood. These guys just answer the call every time.”
Councilman Roth invited the linemen to the front of the Council Chambers, along with Director of HPS Energy, Barbara Quiñones.
“These are our linemen – these are the guys we rely on to keep our power on in the City of Homestead,” Councilman Roth continued. “Not only when there is a storm threatening, but when we are facing the potential of a true disaster, these guys have our back. These guys will not fail us. These guys will go out and do what it takes to get our power back on.”
Councilman Roth presented a certificate of appreciation to 12 linemen in attendance at the presentation including Ramon Ramirez, Michael Cutrer, Marco Quijano, Jesus Morua, Brett West, Jonathan Ingram, Jason Wilkerson, Drew Steen, Billy Pearce, Daniel Church Dean Klements and Will Worrall. Linemen who weren’t able to attend the ceremony but who also received certificates included: Kevin Faddis, Lazaro Fraga, Miguel Llaneras, Jeffrey Beasley, Raul Baez, George Schultz, Leonard Cunningham, Bill Miner and Henry Palmer. Proud family members joined the linemen for a celebratory photograph at the conclusion of the presentation.
In addition, earlier this year, Homestead Public Services (HPS) Energy received a “Restoring Communities Award” from the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) in recognition of its efforts to quickly and safely restore power to Florida communities, as well as parts of the U.S. Virgin Islands, following Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Recipients were honored for their work to restore power within their communities and for sending aid to their fellow municipal electric utilities. Utilities were awarded based on restoration times, customer communications efforts, and the levels of mutual aid provided.