2007 Public Works Leader of the Year Press Release

Anthony (Tony) W. Hayes was selected by the Maine Chapter of the American Public Works Association (MCAPWA) as the 2007 Public Works Leader of the Year.
Tony is the first recipient of the Chapter’s prestigious recognition of an individual who has made significant contributions to the public works profession over their career.  Tony was nominated by a group of his peers within the Town of Falmouth and local engineering consultants.

Tony’s career spans over 36 years.  He spent his first 15 years as the Director of Public Works for the Town of Sanford, Maine.  His next 21 years were spent as Director of the Public Works/Wastewater departments and Town Engineer for the Town of Falmouth.  Tony was responsible for organization, financial management and general administration of his departments, repair and construction of the Town’s road system, and management of the Town’s solid waste and wastewater operations.

Tony instituted a “pay-per-bag” trash pick up systems which decreased disposal volumes by 35% and increased recycling by 44%.  Tony was instrumental in developing the close of area landfills as an effort to save local community dollars.  He secured over $500,000 in FEMA disaster grants for upgrading stormwater systems in anticipation of future storms.  This is estimated to have saved the town millions of dollars in storm damage repair.  He established a returnable bottle/can program for non-profit and school organizations.  This program has generated over $263,000 which goes directly back into the community.  He played a significant roll in helping the town produce one of the most innovative open space programs in New England.

Tony has received many awards including” Eco-Excellence Award for Recycling, Recognition Award for Commitment to Alternative Energy Sources, Certificate of Appreciation from Maine DOT, and the Melvin Jone Fellowship Award (the highest achievement award to a Lions Club Member).

Tony was recognized by the MCAPWA at the Spring meeting in Waterville, on April 3, 2008.