Lakeland is 119 trash bags cleaner this evening (2.1.19) because of City Public Works Supervisor Martin Perez and his crew.
Mr. Perez and his department of nine workers took to U.S. Highways 64 and 70 in Lakeland today to tackle the challenge of so much litter.
Shane Horn, Lakeland city manager, said he asked Mr. Perez about trash on both corridors and the frequency of cleanup by TDOT (Tennessee Department of Transportation).
“Martin also expressed his frustration about the trash along these well-traveled corridors and took on the challenge of having our crews sweep these areas today,” said Mr. Horn. “We collected over 119 bags of trash, numerous tires and other large debris. Thanks Martin and to all of our Public Works employees for making Lakeland a beautiful place to live, work and raise a family!!”
Working with Mr. Perez were Bill Watkins, Jeremy Jones, Michael Morales, Nelson Hardaway, Bobby Carpenter, Karenski Porter, Ryan Branch, Cody Garrett and Alex Fink.
And the work caught the eye of Commissioner Richard Gonzales Jr. who sent an email to Mr. Perez.
“Martin, I couldn’t help but notice your crews removing trash along our Highway 64 and 70 rights-of-way today. I was disappointed to see the numerous large bags of trash your crew collected as a result of the thoughtless actions of too many people driving through our City.
“I appreciate you and your crews’ effort and the hard work it takes to maintain the appearance of Lakeland. Thanks for all you and your crew do for us!”
Mr. Perez responded by saying, “Good afternoon Mr. Gonzales. Thank you for the kudos and I will share it with our Public Works Crews! The Lakeland PWs strives to take pride in keeping the City looking nice. I agree with the thoughtless actions of the many people that drive through our City limits.
“Mr. Shane expressed his concerns about the eyesore of all the litter. We talked about whose responsibility it is to maintain these two main thoroughfares. Mr. Shane gave the “GO AHEAD” and do it the Lakeland way after we talked.”
Mr. Perez added, “The issue is the TDOT responsibility and they should be made to use the State money not City of Lakeland money to keep up with the litter control.
“I disagree with this theory because when we wait you see the eyesore that is created. Mr. Shane sees the work ethic as I do: “If it needs to be done, just do it.’ That being said, I think both thoroughfares look much better. This took just one day to make that difference
“Thank you for letting us serve The City of Lakeland.”
Commissioner Gonzales added, “Our City has an outstanding group of employees in our public works department. We all need to stop and thank them for what they do for us when we see them taking care of our City.
