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Committee approves deputy public works commissioner position after title change amid DEP pressure and hiring challenges
Summary
The ordinance committee voted to add a deputy commissioner of public works position with a wage scale and 4D distribution‑license expectation after amending the job title; discussion focused on a shortage of licensed 4D water distribution operators, DEP enforcement risk and a $225,000 vendor alternative that includes training
BROCKTON, Mass. — The ordinance committee on Aug. 7 voted to recommend creation of a deputy public works commissioner post, amending the proposed title from "deputy director" to "deputy commissioner." The measure includes a pay scale and aims to address a shortage of licensed water distribution operators, Commissioner of Public Works Patrick Hill said.
"This position ... requires possession of a 4 d distribution license," Hill told the committee, adding that the 4‑D credential is the top tier on the distribution side and is tied to state and federal requirements under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Hill said he received no qualified applicants when the city previously advertised the water systems manager role and that few operators hold the 4‑D license.
Why it matters: The city lacks an on‑staff distribution operator, Hill said, and the Massachusetts Department of…
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