Happy New Year, Coconut Creek! On behalf of the entire staff of the City of Coconut Creek, I wish you and your families a very happy, healthy and successful 2017.

This year, we recognized eight outstanding employees who serve and protect our residents every day. The following team members received the Coconut Creek’s Annual 2016 Crystal Butterfly Award, given to those individuals who exemplified exceptional work or customer service this past year.

Asaad Akar, senior project manager, Utilities and Engineering. Asaad assumed the additional responsibilities of the position of environmental engineer. He recently uncovered a Florida Department of Environmental Protection permit application that could have been detrimental for South Florida’s potable water source and quality of life. The city, county and residents are now engaged in the regulatory process.

Clint Corey, detective, Police Department. Clint was recognized for his dedication to the Foundation for Independent Living in Coconut Creek. FIL is a nonprofit, independent residential living program for more than 70 adults with learning disabilities. He meets with the residents, brings in special guests and provides annual tours of the police station and CreekTV.

Elise Adler-Hogan, senior accountant, Finance and Administrative Services. Elise plays a critical role in ensuring the city’s independent external financial audits run smoothly and that the comprehensive annual financial report is accurate and award-winning.

Keat Ooi, senior systems analyst, Information Technology. Keat took on a large-scale, internal IT project to optimize software usage, which led to increased employee efficiency.

Lou Italico, project manager, Public Works. Lou took on the management of several high profile Capital Improvement Projects above and beyond his operational management responsibilities, including the complete remodels of Fire Station 94 and City Hall.

David Poplawski, landscape inspector, Sustainable Development. On a commercial development project, Dave spent three days walking more than 800 feet of a heavily wooded area to tag trees for protection—preserving the natural environment of the area for our residents.

Emana Power, recreation programmer, Parks and Recreation. In addition to creating artwork at the Recreation Complex, Emana helped students create art that incorporated messages of sustainability, peace, tolerance and positive change for our youth.

Chad Hancock, wastewater supervisor, Utilities and Engineering. Chad and his team assisted another division with the scheduling and management of various contractors to perform nighttime work in challenging locations within major road rights-of-way, which saved the city nearly $500,000.