City leaders recognized municipal employees for their dedication to the community during Foley's annual employee appreciation meeting held Thursday, March 5, at the Foley Civic Center.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich praised city workers for the role they play in making Foley a desirable place to live and work, saying their commitment is evident across the community.

"As I travel representing our city, people ask how we do all this," Hellmich said. "It's because of you guys. It's because y'all are proud of what you do. You love your city, and you love one another, and so coming to work is a labor of love, and it's made our city special."

Hellmich said city employees represent Foley well in a wide range of roles, from constructing sidewalks and clearing drainage ditches to trimming trees and helping children at the public library. He added that workers frequently go beyond their assigned duties to assist residents throughout the city.

"We have the same problems that other cities have, but we have a team. When we say Team Foley, that means something to myself and our council," Hellmich told employees. "The important thing that we do as Team Foley is work together. We get compliments on you guys all the time, it is very much appreciated, whether it is somebody stopping to help fix a flat tire or going out of your way with somebody when they're down and out with an issue."

During the event, Logan Eberly, the city's grants and special agreement administrator, received the Foley Extra Mile Award, the city's designation for employee of the year.

Hellmich said Eberly has built a reputation for supporting colleagues even before help is requested and has earned the respect of fellow staff members and department directors. He also praised her ability to navigate complex regulations and maintain communication with federal agencies during the grant application process.

"Her knowledge and ability to deal with these federal agencies and her patience is outstanding," Hellmich said. "She's sitting over here confidently discussing how we get through this particular issue. And that is much appreciated. It's an incredible skill. What you bring to the table for us, and how you work with people is very much appreciated."

City officials also recognized employees for milestone years of service.

Tony Fuqua received a 30-year service award. Randy Stallworth was honored for 25 years of service.

Employees recognized for 20 years of service included Chris Cummins, Devery Thomas, Reid Cole, Michael Lucas, David Thompson, James Smith, Virgil Conway and Mike Lipham.

Fifteen-year service awards were presented to Carl Grant, Curtis Ricks, Brandon Purdue, Andrew Forsythe and Tommy Smith.

Those receiving 10-year service awards were Kate Ray, Cody Nims, Drew Schaff, Gary Schrader, Joshua Gentry, Andrew Salgado, Zach Gebhart, Robin File, Tyler Sundie, David Snyder, Wesley Ray, Michael Powell, Kevin Nodhturft, Kim Ebentheuer, Carter Chmielewski, Cody Carraway and James Pate.

Five-year service awards were presented to Matt Forner, Drew Norris, Ricky Lazauskas, Nichole Blackwell, Wynter Metz, Krystal Bodiford, Sara Kate Harkins, Nathan Smith, Shellie Kichler, Jeff Lee, Garreth Cotton and Warren Harbison.