Kent County Department Heads have selected JASON P. COURTNEY from the Department of Community Services as the May 2021 Employee of the Month.
Jason serves as Parks Maintenance Supervisor in the Division of Parks & Recreation and has been a full-time Kent County employee since January 2002. His primary duty is to supervise Parks Workers in the completion of various park maintenance tasks including cutting grass, general landscaping, maintaining equipment, inspecting and clearing trails, etc. and to coordinate construction of numerous park improvements. Jason was previously recognized as the Employee of the Month in June 2011 when he was a Parks Worker III.
Jason was originally hired 20 years ago as a casual seasonal Parks Worker for the summer of 2001. He went to full time the following January, and has worked his way up the career ladder until being promoted to his current position in 2016. Since then, he has continued to work tirelessly to maintain County parks, especially Brecknock County Park, in pristine condition for visitors and the Kent County community to enjoy.
According to Director of Community Services Jeremy Sheppard, “Jason has shown excellent leadership skills coordinating park maintenance services over the past year during the pandemic. He worked hard to keep park facilities sanitized in order to stay open, worked with a depleted summer staff, handled the cleanup of Tidbury Park after the tornado last August, and continues to coordinate park projects. Jason’s passion for maintaining Kent County’s parkland can be clearly seen.”
Congratulations Jason on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected VANESSA L. LAUGHMAN from the Office of the Kent County Recorder of Deeds as the April 2021 Employee of the Month.
Vanessa has served Kent County Deputy Recorder of Deeds since December 2019 and is responsible for performance of all duties required of the Recorder of Deeds in her absence including supervision of employees, and the accurate recording of deeds, mortgages, and other documents as required by Delaware Code.
Before joining Kent County, Vanessa worked in member services at the Delaware State Police Federal Credit Union after more than 37 years as a civilian employee for Delaware State Police retiring in 2017 as an Administrative Specialist for the Training Academy. Vanessa has utilized her customer service skills and techniques learned working in the State Police human resource area to develop positive working relationships and improve office efficiencies.
According to Kent County Recorder of Deeds Betty Lou McKenna, “Vanessa is doing a great job. She has learned how to perform the duties of every position in the office and really has great enthusiasm for Kent County. After just a short time, I am very impressed by how well Vanessa works with her co-workers in the office and from other departments. She is very deserving of this honor.
Congratulations Vanessa on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected KELLY D. PITTS from the Department of Administration as the March 2021 Employee of the Month.
Kelly has served Kent County as the Public Information Officer since October 2017
and is responsible for media relations and assisting the County Administrator in planning and implementing various programs and projects.
Kelly is the point person with the local news media and has significantly elevated the County’s social media presence with consistent public messaging on Facebook and Twitter. She deftly handles the various media outlets with the utmost professionalism. Kelly also has primary responsibility for the County’s public relations efforts including special events like ribbon cuttings, tributes, and Safe Summer Day; special projects like Youth in Government Day, the decennial U.S. Census, and Covid-19 testing/vaccination awareness; and localized emergencies like sewer line breaks and tornados. In addition, she manages compliance with the Freedom of Information Act requests and publication of the quarterly Kent County Levy Court Community Newsletter.
According to County Administrator Michael Petit de Mange, “Kelly Pitts is a true
public relations professional who operates at a very high level in the public interest and consistently exceeds expectations. Since joining the County in 2017, Kelly has worked hard to advance public awareness of Kent County services and initiatives, to promptly address citizen inquiries, and to ensure quality and reliability in our communications”, he said. “We are very fortunate to have Kelly as an essential member of our Management Team and we’re pleased to honor her as the Kent County Employee of the Month for March 2021”.
Congratulations Kelly on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected BRANDON L. OLENIK from the Department of Public Safety as the February 2021 Employee of the Month.
Brandon has been a Kent County employee in his current role as Administrative Officer for the Emergency Management Division since January 2014. Prior to that he served as a 9-1-1 Dispatcher for nine years and along the way earned his Associates degree in Homeland Security & Emergency Management and a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Safety Administration. His primary duties include assisting with planning the evacuation routes and providing shelter for persons during a natural or manmade disaster, preparing and administering grants in support of emergency services/homeland security programs, participating and assisting in emergency services drills and exercises, maintaining readiness of the Emergency Operations Center; and related activities.
In addition, Brandon serves as the County’s Safety Officer responsible for safety inspections and investigating serious incidents resulting in injury or loss and making recommendations to prevent future claims. As such he has been a valuable resource for the Delaware Founders Insurance Trust’s (DFIT) Safety Committee by organizing meetings and training sessions for the large group representing many local governments.
According to Public Safety Director Colin Faulkner, “With my attention focused recently on the pandemic response, Brandon has become an integral part of the vendor interface and update of the federally mandated All Hazards Mitigation Plan and Kent Emergency Operations Plan. He also plays a critical role in damage assessment for DEMA/FEMA often resulting in partial reimbursement for local disasters, such as the recent tornado spawned by Tropical Storm Isaias. He has consistently proven to be an invaluable asset to our public safety team.”
Congratulations Brandon on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected MARY R. HAZELWOOD from the Department of Administration as the January 2021 Employee of the Month.
Mary has been a Kent County employee since October 2007 and holds the position of Network Specialist II in the Information Technology Office. Her primary duties include maintaining computer systems, applications, security, and network configurations; troubleshooting computer network-related issues; configuring new desktop/laptop computers and software applications; and supporting the County’s multi-vendor enterprise LAN/WAN infrastructure. She was previously honored in 2012 and was ultimately named Employee of the Year!
Mary selection this time is primarily in recognition for her outstanding efforts completing the various supervisory and work tasks assigned to the vacant Network Administrator position. Since April, she has successfully performed her own normal duties, while also completing and leading highly technical I.T. projects. During her tenure, including 5 years as a contracted ACS employee, Mary has earned a reputation for being able to communicate complex computer processes in “non-techie” terms. She has an exceptional ability to visualize the County’s vast network of servers, computers, printers, etc. and figure out how each component is interconnected.
According to Information Technology Director Kim Crouch “Mary continues to maintain the I.T. network at optimum levels and complete her regular daily tasks. She along with her counterpart has provided the necessary leadership to initiate and complete numerous projects. Mary’s dedication, insightfulness, and approachability make her a valuable member of the I.T. team.”
Congratulations Mary on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected CHRISTIAN G. WHITE of the Sheriff’s Office as the December 2020 Employee of the Month.
Chris serves as Chief Deputy Sheriff in the Office of the Kent Country Sheriff and has been a Kent County employee since May 2008. His primary duties include service of court-ordered subpoenas; maintaining records of service; conducting property inventory for scheduled sales; assisting in the sale of property; and as Chief Deputy supporting the Sheriff with supervising office staff and activities. Chris was previously recognized as the Employee of the Month in November 2013.
Chris is a retired City of Dover police officer and is highly regarded for his professionalism and positive attitude. He uses his skills to deescalate tense situations when serving a subpoena or summons or inventorying personal property to settle a judgment. Earlier this year when the County Complex was closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he cleverly suggested use of a surplus Emergency Services vehicle parked out front with partially opened windows as a secure temporary drop off point for various documents such as site plans, building or sewer permit applications, deeds, tax & sewer payments, and job applications.
According to Sheriff Brian E. Lewis, “Chris does an excellent job as my Chief Deputy. No matter what the task, I can count on him to be there. He and his fellow deputies are highly trained individuals capable of handling any situation. Chris is a fine example of the high quality employees working for Kent County and he is very deserving of this honor.”
Congratulations Chris on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected KAITLYN M. SCHECH from the Department of Community Services as the November 2020 Employee of the Month.
Kaitlyn serves as a Recreation Program Supervisor I in the Parks & Recreation Division and has worked for Kent County since September 2017. Her primary duties include organizing and coordinating recreational programs and leagues at the Recreation Center, various County parks and other locations.
Kaitlyn is responsible for greatly expanding KCPR’s youth soccer program by leading efforts to combine youth recreational players from a local club and those enrolling in Kent County’s recreation program. Earlier this year, this combination of programs resulted in 175 sign-ups for Spring Soccer. Unfortunately, it was all cut short one week into the season by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Working through the summer, Kaitlyn was able to coordinate a safe return for Fall Soccer, which currently has 130 youth involved. Play has continued and the vision of the Kent Youth Soccer League (KYSL) is taking shape. Kaitlyn works tirelessly coordinating with uniform suppliers, volunteer coaches, local soccer resources, officials groups, park staff, and front office staff for registration purposes.
According to Community Service Director Jeremy Sheppard, “Kaitlyn is a thoughtful worker with a powerful inner drive to make programs better. Her passion for youth soccer led the way for the program merger last spring and now to fruition in the fall. She successfully managed a detailed safe return plan for youth soccer and the Kent County community is better for it.”
Congratulations Kaitlyn on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected CORDAE A. SHOWELL from the Department of Public Works as the October 2020 Employee of the Month.
Cordae has been a Kent County employee since December 2018 and holds the position of Heavy Equipment Operator I in the Wastewater Facilities Division. His primary duties include operating heavy equipment at the Regional Resource Recovery Facility, and transporting and land applying highly prized processed biosolids - Kentorganite to area farms.
Cordae is praised by supervisors for his dependability and conscientiousness. His work ethic is matched only by his enthusiasm for the important work.
More recently, Cordae had a vital role in Kent County’s physical effort to help Dover area property owners clean-up unprecedented tornado damage caused by Tropical Storm Isaias. Cordae along with the rest of the County’s clean-up team worked diligently to remove the debris by operating a large wheeled excavator.
According to Public Works Director Diana Golt, “Since his first day, Cordae has been an exemplary employee. His quiet demeanor and calm attitude have been a pleasant addition. He shows up each day with a smile on his face, ready to tackle whatever job is in front of him. His attitude and dedication makes him a perfect candidate for this honor”
Congratulations Cordae on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected PAUL A. MODESTO Jr. from the Department of Planning Services as the September 2020 Employee of the Month.
Paul has been a Kent County employee since July 2018 and holds the position of Building Codes Inspector I in the Inspections & Enforcement Office. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing/Business Administration from University of Delaware and completed a 4-year apprenticeship in commercial carpentry in 2010. His primary duties include inspecting buildings and property for compliance with the County building code as well as enforcement of zoning, housing and property maintenance ordinances.
Paul has earned praise by his supervisors for utilizing his vast carpentry experience to assist homeowners and contractors in understanding the County building codes and inspection processes. He has brought a unique perspective to the inspections team, and is always willing to pitch in to get the job done.
According to County Administrator Michael Petit de Mange, “Paul has stepped up to help reduce the recent backlog caused by an uptick in building permit applications. This effort was demonstrated last month when he began taking on extra hours and even worked over the 4th of July Holiday to complete timely inspections. Paul’s willingness to go the extra mile is greatly appreciated and very worthy of this recognition.”
According to Planning Services Director Sarah Keifer, “Paul not only possesses the skills required to be a great building inspector, he embraces our customer service mission. His eagerness to take on extra hours to serve the public is deeply appreciated.”
Congratulations Paul on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected KRISANNE MILEY from the Department of Finance as the August 2020 Employee of the Month.
KrisAnne has been a Kent County employee since July 2018 and holds the position of Accountant III in the general fund Accounting section. She has a Bachelor’s degree in accounting from University of Pittsburgh and earned a Master’s degree in accounting from Wilmington University in 2016. Before joining the County, she worked as a State Auditor in the Delaware Office of Auditor of Accounts.
KrisAnne’s primary duties include reviewing and approving all submitted capital project expenditures, managing NSP, EMPG, & Library Standards grant fund draws, monitoring contracts for compliance with terms and expiration, and she has taken the lead role for COVID-19 grant application review and submission. In addition, she has helped organize end of year documents and transfer them for proper storage.
According to Finance Director Susan Durham, “KrisAnne has impressed everybody since she started work here. She is very detail oriented and extremely thorough with a keen eye for complete documentation. She has helped take our grant reimbursement process to the next level by working to maximize return where possible. She continuously seeks new challenges and went the extra mile whenever COVID-19 impacted County operations.”
Congratulations KrisAnne on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected AMY L. MINNER from the Department of Planning Services as the July 2020 Employee of the Month.
Amy started as a Permit Technician I with Kent County in January 2008 and currently serves a Permit Technician III. Her primary duties include performing highly technical work in the issuance of County permits and maintaining the efficient and effective operation of the Permit Service Center ensuring high employee performance, customer service and support to other departments.
Amy was previously recognized as the Employee of the Month in October 2015 and August 2010. Both times, her outstanding customer service skills, frequent praise from customers and dedication to the “Go Pink” campaign were given as reasons why she deserved the award.
During the COVID-19 pandemic response, Amy helped make the business continuity plan in her department particularly successful.
According to Director of Planning Services Sarah Kiefer, “During a period of exceptionally high permit demand, changes in how permits are submitted, changes in how we communicate with applicants without use of the front counter, and continued MGO testing and development, Amy kept everything moving as efficiently and effectively as possible. She handled the situation not only without complaint, but cheerfully. I am proud of how all of Planning Services was able to continue providing service in all areas, but Amy truly stands out and has been noticed by her coworkers for that fact as well.”
Congratulations Amy on a job well done!
Kent County Department Heads have selected EMS Captain JOHN A. TINGER from the Department of Public Safety as the June 2020 Employee of the Month.
John started as a Paramedic with Kent County in May 2006 and currently serves as the Administrative Officer in the division of Emergency Medical Services. His primary duties include responsibility for statistical data management, education and analysis of data for quality assurance in EMS operations.
John has accomplished many things during his career at the County including developing the Training Center into an official center recognized by both the County and State government, becoming the first SWAT Commander and assisting with the development of the SWAT team and bringing Combat Tactical Medicine Training and self-defense classes to all the staff. John regularly and actively engages with First Responders to communicate information and guidance from the Delaware Department of Health & Social Services. He is also a Registered Nurse.
During the COVID-19 pandemic response, John has communicated operational enhancements to each platoon and worked with staff daily to ensure they have requisite PPE for current and future needs. He has also developed an informational video and training for County employees about the proper use of PPE.
According to Chief Colin Faulkner, “John is an extremely energetic Administrative Staff Captain who constantly strives to improve operations and our ability to provide the very best emergency medical and traumatic response for our citizens. John’s collective accomplishments and straightforward energy for promoting our Division of EMS has clearly raised the bar for future personnel aspiring to enter the administrative ranks.”
Congratulations John on a job well done!
KRISANNE MILEY
Kent County Employee Council selected and Kent County Levy Court has honored KRISANNE MILEY from the Department of Finance as the 2020 Employee of the Year!
KrisAnne has been a Kent County employee since July 2018 and holds the position of Accountant III in the general fund Accounting section. She has a Bachelor’s degree in accounting from University of Pittsburgh and earned a Master’s degree in accounting from Wilmington University in 2016. Before joining the County, she worked as a State Auditor in the Delaware Office of Auditor of Accounts.
KrisAnne’s primary duties include reviewing and approving all submitted capital project expenditures, managing NSP, EMPG, & Library Standards grant fund draws, monitoring contracts for compliance with terms and expiration, and she has taken the lead role for COVID-19 grant application review and submission. In addition, she has helped organize end of year documents and transfer them for proper storage.
According to Finance Director Susan Durham, “KrisAnne has impressed everybody since she started work here. She is very detail oriented and extremely thorough with a keen eye for complete documentation. She has helped take our grant reimbursement process to the next level by working to maximize return where possible. She continuously seeks new challenges and went the extra mile whenever COVID-19 impacted County operations.”
Congratulations KrisAnne!
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