Employee saves county time and money

July 31, 1998

The Washington County Commissioners on Tuesday night named Rick Curry winner of the Innovative, Dedicated Employee Award (I.D.E.A.).

Curry, a buyer for the county Purchasing Department, saved the county more than $33,000 in money and personnel time, said County Administrator Rodney Shoop, who presented Curry with the award.

"The award is nice, but I was hired to do a job, and this is just part of my job," said Curry.

Curry works as a purchaser for the Water and Sewer Department. He discovered that vendors were not refunding deposits the county made on 55-gallon drums of degreaser and deodorizer used at pumping stations, said Shoop.

The deposits were to be refunded when the empty drums were returned to the vendor. Because of Curry's efforts, the vendors paid $13,300 to the county, said Shoop.

As recipient of the award, Curry received a $500 check and an extra personal day.

He was nominated for the award by Debra Bastian, county director of budget and finance, and Karen Luther, county purchasing agent.

I.D.E.A. began in 1996 to honor employees whose innovative ideas and dedicated public service resulted in saving money, protecting lives and property, and improving efficiency, officials said.

The award is made quarterly.

|

|

|