The American Public Works Association's Ohio Chapter has lauded a City of Dublin official for his exceptional contributions to public service. Director of Engineering Paul Hammersmith was honored with the Clyde “Butch” Seidle Public Works Servant Leader Award for 2024 during a recent Dublin City Council meeting held on Monday. His 38 years in the profession, including his pivotal role in directing the City’s numerous infrastructure and public works initiatives, cinched the accolade.
City Manager Megan O’Callaghan commended Hammersmith's leadership and dedication to Dublin's progress, “Paul demonstrates exceptional leadership and expertise in all aspects of public works operations,” according to a statement obtained by the City of Dublin. With a substantial $250 million Capital Improvement Program under his stewardship every year, he has effectively steered the city's large-scale projects and budgets, showcasing an astute grasp of complex fiscal challenges and infrastructure management.
In his tenure, Hammersmith has stood at the helm of a 37-person team, which boasts 11 professional engineers, all the while fostering an environment that has allowed his staff to flourish. His role has extended beyond city limits, participating in regional planning commissions and shaping the wider public works dialogue through his extensive involvement with the APWA's Ohio Chapter Board of Directors over a period of more than two decades.
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Hammersmith reflected on his tenure and the symbolism of the award, “I’ve loved serving the City of Dublin and this grateful community for the past 25 years,” he said, as mentioned in the City of Dublin’s announcement. “I get to do this every day and have a lot of fun.” He also paid homage to the award's namesake, Clyde Seidle, describing him as "the epitome of public service."
The City of Dublin, a community of roughly 50,000 residents located just northwest of Columbus, Ohio, prides itself on providing quality services and infrastructure to both its residents and businesses. The city fosters strategic growth and innovation, emphasized by its consistent ranking as the number one small city in Ohio and its notoriety as one of the nation's safest cities. More information on Dublin’s offerings and achievements can be explored on the official city website.
