On Wednesday, May 4, 2016, the Spokane County Division of Engineering and Roads renamed the Public Works Department. In addition, the Utilities Division will be renamed the Environmental Services Department. The reasoning behind both changes is to better reflect their work for Spokane County citizens.
According to Director/County Engineer Mitch Reister, the renamed Public Works Department will continue to build and maintain the best possible county road system with their limited budget. “We also provide design guidance regarding public and private roads, development standards, storm water and floodplain management, permits for approaches and street obstructions, traffic safety and transportation demand management programs county wide,” Reister said.
Utilities Director Kevin Cooke said they decided on the new name of “Environmental Services” because the department provides citizens with a variety of services related to the protection of the environment. “Considering our ongoing emphasis on stewardship of our water resources, effective handling of solid waste, and related educational programs, we decided a new name would better reflect our work,” Cooke said. The Environmental Services Department also has a new slogan – “Keeping Your Water Clean and the Environment Green!”