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.”