Pell City hosted a luncheon for all city employees from every department on Dec. 17. 

The event was canceled last year due to COVID, and Mayor Bill Pruitt said he was grateful to have the opportunity to celebrate everyone who keeps the city running. 

“It’s great to see everyone come together, we really are a big family. It’s not often we all get to interact as a group,” said Pruitt. “The employees that are sitting out there that we’re thanking, they’re the ones that make everything go so smoothly. We don’t deserve any of the credit for that, it’s all the employees. This is just our way saying thanks.”

Awards were given to employees who have been working and serving the city for 20 or more years.

“We do have so many employees that stay with the city for a long time, so we’ve incorporated in some longevity awards and I always enjoy telling some of our employees about each other,” said Brian Muenger, city manager. 

Police Captain Joshua C. Herren was honored for 20 years of serving the city. Herrin joined the Pell City Police department in 2001. He has been Captain of the Pell City PD since 2014.

Brandon McWaters, Pell City Police Department investigator, was hired in 2001. In his time with the city he has held the titles of investigator, patrol officer and patrol corporal.

Since becoming an officer with the City of Pell City, Investigator McWaters held the position of Patrol Officer, Patrol Corporal and current position as an Investigator.  

Lieutenant Don Newton, acting sergeant over the patrol division of Pell City PD was recognized. In his 20 years he has served several positions such as founding member of Special Operations Unit, founding member of Bicycle Patrol Unit, public information officer, FBI Southeastern Law Enforcement Executive Development (SLEED) graduate and FBI Law Enforcement Instructor. 

He was awarded as the 2021 Pell City Chamber of Commerce officer of the year.

Gary Robinson was hired in 2001 by the city to be a utility meter reader with the Utility Department. Robinson has served as a line service worker, Water Treatment Plant operator, waste and water trainer and has earned a level three WWTP certification. 

James R. Robinson was hired in 2000 as a line service worker with the Utility Department. He began working with the WWTP in 2002 and became a level three certified operator in 2004. Robinson currently serves as the lab technician and plant operator.