Working for public good
Molly Shore
Rudy Tan fixes malfunctioning traffic signals for the city of
Burbank. He’s also a modest man.
Tan, 50, is one of eight Public Works employees who will be
honored for outstanding service Thursday at the Buena Vista Branch
Library as part of National Public Works Week.
Tan doesn’t think he’s done anything special. He’s just doing his
job.
“Being outdoors is the best part,” said Tan, who lives in
Torrance, but is on call nights and weekends. “We want to fix
problems right away to avoid any accidents or injuries.”
Other Public Works employees who will be recognized by the city
are Ricardo Lomeli, Robert King, Rodger Jones, Jessica Sandoval, Tim
Kubelkav, Matthew Rutkowskiv and Dolly Chatham.
Chatham, a clerk who assists the traffic mainten- ance division,
has been with the city for two years.
“I try to make sure things don’t fall through the cracks,” she
said.
Public Works Director Bruce Feng, who oversees a staff of 206
full-time employees, said those being honored this year have each
demonstrated an exemplary work ethic.
“These eight individuals represent the broad scope of public works
operations, and they have demonstrated their dedication and
commitment to maintain and enhance the quality of life for the
Burbank community,” he said.
Chatham only wishes she found her job sooner.
“I really enjoy what I do,” she said. “I love it.”