By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
Earlier this month, the Michigan Rural Water Association held its Annual Conference at the Soaring Eagle Resort in Mt. Pleasant.
And the City of Plainwell was among the municipalities to be honored during the event.
Plainwell’s Department of Public Works received the 2022 Water Utility of the Year Award on Thursday, March 17, much to the delight of Plainwell Public Works Superintendent Robert Nieuwenhuis.
“It was great to see the staff be recognized for all their hard work throughout the year,” Nieuwenhuis said. “We had demonstrated compliance during the last 12 months with sampling and reports, which is what led to us receiving the award.”
Nieuwenhuis credited Dan Neeson with helping to make sure the city’s water system was running as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Neeson was the operator in charge of the water system for many years prior to his retirement last year.
“I think this water system has been great for many years and Dan left an award-winning system for us,” Nieuwenhuis said.
Wade Keyzer took over for Neeson and is now the operator in charge of the water system.
“Wade has used the knowledge Dan passed on and added to what was already a high-quality, high-customer-service system that utilizes a great team-work approach and holds itself to a great standard.”
Current projects for the Plainwell DPW includes upgrading pumps and scales for its limited treatment at both well houses.
“The City of Plainwell is lucky to have staff that take pride in their water system,” Nieuwenhuis said. “Jobs from flushing hydrants, meter reading and customer service have always been a top priority and will continue to be.
“We would also like to thank Michigan Rural Water Association for providing training, assistance and recognition to water system throughout the state.”
