Public Works Department earns American Public Works Association accreditation

The Edmond Public Works Department recently received full accreditation from the American Public Works Association (APWA).

This is the third time Edmond earned the full accreditation, which formally verifies and recognizes that the agency is in full compliance with the recommended management practices set forth in APWA’s Public Works Management Practices Manual.

Open to all governmental agencies with responsibilities for public works functions, initial accreditation from APWA covers a four-year period, during which time semi-annual updates are required to demonstrate continuing compliance.

After that initial four-year period, a re-accreditation process builds on the original accreditation, encouraging continuous improvement and compliance with newly identified practices.

“The awarding of the APWA Accreditation reflects the dedication of our staff toward continued improvement and excellence,” Edmond Director of Public Works Keith Stewart said. “The City of Edmond’s mission is to provide trustworthy service through continuous improvement, and this award highlights Edmond Public Works’ contribution to that effort.

"We are extremely proud to receive this prestigious APWA award, which recognizes the efforts of our public works staff. These public works professionals are dedicated to providing services and programs that contribute to making Edmond a great place to live and work.”

The comprehensive, five-step accreditation process promotes excellence in the operation and management of a public works agency, its programs and employees. Accreditation also assists the agency in continuous improvement of operations and management and provides a valid and objective evaluation of agency programs.

Formally awarded the prestigious accreditation by APWA’s Accreditation Council, the Edmond Public Works Department first earned APWA Accreditation in 2013. In addition to Edmond, Norman is the other accredited agency in Oklahoma.