Public Works Supervisor Enjoys Serving Residents
Public Service Recognition Week is May 5-11, 2024
Brian Tatum has helped improve Hillsborough's public spaces since joining the Public Works Division in 2011.
“I think it’s a great organization,” Tatum said. “We’re a small team and everyone works together.”
When Tatum joined the Town of Hillsborough as an equipment operator, he drove garbage trucks, helped repair asphalt roads and hung town banners and holiday decorations in addition to many other tasks. He found that the public service work was similar to running his own landscaping business ― he could immediately see improvements as he worked outdoors. He also found that the job involved a good bit of talking with people while working. Those conversations have often included positive comments.
“I love hearing from residents that we’ve done a good job,” Tatum said. “And I enjoy seeing people happy and glad that we’ve done the work.”
Over the years, Tatum advanced in his certifications from equipment operator I to II and then III, and he became a crew leader. In 2022, he advanced to the public works supervisor position, assisting the public works manager.
As the supervisor, Tatum meets with residents and contractors who need to work in the public right of way, particularly when the work impacts a road, driveway or stormwater ditch. He is currently busy meeting with fiber subcontractors who have been digging under driveways and stormwater drainage all over town. He also inspects asphalt repairs to make sure they are done right and checks sidewalks for safety concerns.
“I enjoy making sure people are satisfied by the work the Public Works Division does,” Tatum said.
