The City of Watertown proudly announced the 2024 employee award recipients during the 42nd Annual Employee Service Recognition Banquet on Saturday, February 8, 2025.
The awards highlight exceptional achievements and contributions by City employees across various categories. This year's honorees include:
- Rookie of the Year: Nick Weyh, Information Technology Department, Associate IT Administrator
Recognized for significant contributions made within the first three years of service with the City. - Mentor Award: Rob Beynon, Public Works Department, Street Division Superintendent
Recognized for providing encouragement, guidance, and support, helping colleagues reach their potential. - Creativity Award: Kelli Fritz, Administration, Public Information Officer
Recognized for thinking ‘outside the box’ and developing creative solutions. - Caregiver Award: Connie Cutler, Watertown Police Department, Executive Assistant
Recognized for acts of kindness, compassion, and above-and-beyond efforts to support others within the community and workplace. - One-in-a-Million Award: Jodi Hemiller, Prairie Lakes Wellness Center, Recreation Program Coordinator
Recognized as an employee whose awesomeness has improved productivity, benefited the workplace, or contributed in some to the betterment of our community. - Employee of the Year: Emily Forrest, Finance Department, Accounts Payable Specialist
Recognized for outstanding service, dedication, and commitment to the community.
“The individuals we celebrate tonight represent the values of service, creativity, and community that make Watertown a great place to live and work,” said Mayor Ried Holien. “Congratulations to all the nominees and award recipients."
The City also honored its 2024 retirees Tony Aas, William “Bill” Gallagher, and Florian Pischke and celebrated personnel who reached significant service milestones – including 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 35 years of service.
The award selection process is rooted in peer recognition. This year, coworkers submitted 77 nominations. A selection committee of last year’s award recipients carefully reviewed the nominations and selected the winners for each category.