FOLEY - Mike Chavers with the Foley Street Department was announced as the recipient of this year’s Extra Mile Award. Chavers returned to the city four years ago after 30 years. He received a $1,000 check along with the Extra Mile Award plaque.

“I can’t say enough about the mayor and council, and everybody who takes care of us,” said Chavers. “It’s just been an awesome four years … I appreciate this so much and look forward to a great year ahead.”

The Extra Mile Award is presented to a “deserving city employee who has surpassed expectations for exemplary service,” said Council President Pro-Tem Charlie Ebert. Nominations for the award are submitted by department heads, along with supporting documentation, comments, and other key components as to why an employee deserves the award. Mayor Ralph Hellmich then reviewed the written nominations and made a selection based on, but not limited to, the following factors: the employee’s overall job performance, organizational support, development of self and others, personal integrity, problem solving, sensitivity, delivering results, commitment, dedication, professionalism and team spirit.

Chavers’s nomination included these comments from City Engineer Chad Christian: “This employee was one of the first employees to report for duty after Hurricane Sally and started cleaning roadways immediately in very difficult and dangerous conditions. [Chavers’s] problem solving skills were demonstrated by getting the roads cleared and open for emergency and other vehicles to provide access, helping others restore utility and water services in the hardest hit areas of Foley. He consistently exceeds standards in all areas and delivers impeccable results.”