2023 Town Administrator's Commitment to Excellence Award

It was my distinct honor to award Deputy Chief Robert "Bob" O'Connell with the 2023 Town Administrator's Commitment to Excellence Award at last evening's Select Board Meeting.  Deputy O'Connell has been an "On-Call" member of the West Boylston Fire Department since 1990.  In addition to responding to emergency calls he will often fill open shifts to assist the Department as they are experiencing a staffing shortage.  He assists the Chief with the Administrative functions of the Department, training, and fleet maintenance.  Deputy Chief O'Connell's commitment to public safety and the fire service is unwavering.

In addition to his service to the Fire Department, Bob has also served on a number of Boards, Committees and Commissions over the years.  They include the Cable TV Advisory Committee, the Facilities Implementation and Strategic Planning Committee, Historical Commission, Assistant Emergency Management Director, Assistant Hazardous Waste Coordinator, and Naming Committee.  

Bob is always willing to serve the Town of West Boylston in any capacity he can.  When I first met him after arriving in West Boylston he remarked upon leaving my office, "anything you need, you let me know".  While many can offer such words- Bob truly means them.  He loves the Town of West Boylston and is committed to making it better each and every day.  

Deputy O'Connell was nominated by Fire Chief Mark Sadowski for the award this year.  The Town Administrator’s ‘Commitment to Excellence’ Award is an annual award that recognizes the achievements of a municipal employee who has excelled in their position.

-Jennifer Warren-Dyment, Town Administrator