Georgia Public Works Magazine | Issue 4 – December/January 2022 by Kelman & Associates

THE OFFICIAL STATE PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION | ISSUE 4 – DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022

THE INFRASTRUCTURE

INVESTMENT AND

JOBS ACT WILL

DELIVER FOR

Georgia

Inside

• City of Atlanta Earns Top Honor for Fleet Management • Who You Gonna Call? • ADA, Me, and You, too!

ROADS LEAD TO STRONGER COMMUNITY. A community’s roads connect us to jobs, healthcare, daily essentials, friends and family — and home. Ergon is proud to provide the materials and support needed to help build and maintain safe roadways across America, connecting us all to what matters most.

APS PREMIUM PAVEMENT PRESERVATION PRODUCTS APS IS PROUD TO BE YOUR FULL SERVICE CONTRACTOR FOR

PAVEMENT PRESERVATION & IN-PLACE RECONSTRUCTION IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA

HIGH PERFORMANCE TOOL BOX » Crack Seal

» Premium Slurry Seal

» Premium Micro-Surface

» Cold In-Place Recycling

6789 Highway 67, Brooklet, GA 30415

912.800.3980

www.AsphaltPavingSystems.com

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS Power When You Need It! GENERATORS

PUMPS

TOTAL PACS

• 20kW-1MW Diesel (Mobile)

• 3”-18”

• 20kW-200kW Diesel

• 20kW-1.2MW Diesel (Stationary)

• 450-18,000 GPM

• Generator and Automatic Transfer

• 30kW-300kW Gaseous (Stationary)

• Hose Trailer Package Available

Switch in One Assembled Unit

• Connections Tailored to Your Specs

• Easy Deployment and Setup

• UL 2200 Approved

• Non-Proprietary

• Cable Trays and Reels Available

• Transducer with Auto Speed Control

• Sound Attenuated Enclosures

• Marine Grade Aluminum Housings

• Sound Attenuated Enclosures

• Larger Standard Size Fuel Tanks

• Aluminum Trailers Optional

• Color Options Available

• 100 & 200 Amp Cords Available

• Stainless Steel Camlocks on Hoses

• Utility and Service Outlet Distribution

• LED Telescoping Area

• Clear Wire Bound Suction Hose

Panels with Optional Mounting

Lights Available

• 250 PSI Rated Discharge Hose

Locations

FLORIDA SHERIFFS

ASSOCIATION

North Carolina Sheriffs Association Proudly Serving the Sheriffs and Citizens of North Carolina since 1922

TRADEWINDSPOWER.COM Miami Corporate Office | 5820 NW 84th Avenue | Miami, FL 33166 | 800.223.3289

Table of Contents

ISSUE 4 – DEC/JAN 2022 APWA GEORGIA CHAPTER 4915 Chase Lane Cumming, GA 30040 www.georgia.apwa.net PRESIDENT Mr. Christopher Rotalsky PRESIDENT ELECT Mr. Christopher Cox PAST PRESIDENT Ms. Shirley Stevenson VICE PRESIDENT Mr. Felix Floyd SECRETARY Mr. Patrick S. Collins, P.E. DELEGATE Mr. Lenardo “Leo” Owens TREASURER Mrs. Becky L. Kinsey ALTERNATE DELEGATE Mr. Terrence Simpkins Georgia Public Works is published by:

Tel: 866-985-9780 Fax: 866-985-9799 www.kelmanonline.com Managing Editor: Megan Funnell Marketing Manager: Rod Evason Design/layout: Dia Chea Advertising Coordinator: Stefanie Hagidiakow All rights reserved 2022. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express consent of the publisher.

FEATURES 13

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will Deliver for Georgia

City of Atlanta Earns Top Honor for Fleet Management

Congratulations to Mayor-Elect Andre Dickens

16 17 19 21

APWA Metro Atlanta Branch

Who You Gonna Call? ADA, Me, and You, too! What Can a Water System do to Prepare for a Power Outage? Lessons Learned from Recent Cyber Attacks on Water Utilities

DEPARTMENTS 7 9 11 28 30

President’s Message Become a Member of the APWA Branch Reports Georgia APWA News Advertiser Product & Service Center

This document is printed on paper certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®).

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

• Optimum Operator Visibility • Incomparable Stability

• Unmatched Maneuverability • Extremely Heavy-Duty Design

Introducing the revolutionary MowerMax Boom Mower which is designed and purpose-built by ATMAX Equipment Co. to have the best visibility, stability and maneuverability in the industry! TM

Extremely versatile

Broom - one of 30 attachments 2021-24 Georgia State Contract

Optional Fecon mulching head

New - 30 ft boom reach

Call 423-595-4897 to schedule a demo or go to www.MowerMax.com.

President ’s Message

ALWAYS HELPING OTHERS C H R I S R O TA L S K Y, A P W A G E O R G I A C H A P T E R P R E S I D E N T

s we look forward to 2022, I’ve taken the time to look back and reflect upon many things. The past couple of years have been extremely challenging for us all, yet we have persevered and become stronger. We have all had to adapt and become comfortable in a virtual world of communication and interaction. Timelines and expectations have required changes and adjustments. Through all of this, I have learned to value and appreciate the great benefit of interacting with people face-to-face. I believe this personal interaction has been one of the greatest Chapter achievements of 2021. Throughout the adversity, the Chapter was able to host an in-person Annual Conference at Jekyll Island in August. However, I firmly believe it was not the hosting of the Conference in and of itself – nor was it the education, training sessions or awards that made it a great accomplishment. By far the greatest achievement was the coming together of people in a common place for a common purpose. The people of Public Works are a wonderfully unique group, each with individual skillsets and personalities. The most common theme I see throughout this group is the consistent desire to help others. I have always said that there are no two Public Works groups that are exactly the same: every group has a few different responsibilities or functions in slightly different ways; however,

I have enjoyed my time as your Chapter President and thank you for allowing me to serve in this position.

every Public Works group is in the business to help others, and that is what makes all of our people special. Each person is unique and has their own special way in which they can help others. As my term as Chapter President comes to a close and I look forward to 2022, the one thing I will always appreciate from my opportunity to be President will be the great people of the Chapter with whom I have been able to be associated. I know the Chapter will be led in positive directions and able to accomplish great things in 2022 and beyond. This will all be possible because of you and the other great people within the Georgia Public Works Association. I have enjoyed my time as your Chapter President and thank you for allowing me to serve in this position. God bless you all.

800.910.2885 knrgroup.com

LOADRITE E2750 on-board scale for garbage trucks Back to Contents

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

Georgia APWA Branches Georgia APWA GEORGIA APWA BRANCHES 2021 Branches Branch Presidents 2021 Branch Presidents 2021 BRANCH PRESIDENTS Georgia APWA Branches North Carolina 2021 Branch Presidents

Tennessee

Tennessee Fannin

Walker

Floyd

Gilmer

Catoosa

Dade

Gordon

ChattoogaWalker

Gordon

Floyd Chattooga

Polk

PickensGilmer

Floyd

Haralson Carroll

Heard

Coweta

Alabama

Fayette

Pike

Meriwether Meriwether

Troup

Harris Harris

Peach

Webster

Sumter

Webster

Sumter

Quitman Randolph

Clay

Crisp

Clay Calhoun Calhoun

Dougherty

Baker

Early

Baker

Early

Telfair

Wilcox

Miller

Dougherty

Worth

Tift

bkpage@chathamcounty.org

Mitchell

Coffee

Colquitt

Cook

Metro Atlanta Branch

Cook

Brooks

Candler

Bulloch

Lowndes

Effingham

Evans Tattnall Evans

Chatham

Bryan

Tattnall

Chatham

Bryan Liberty

Long

Southeast Branch Tony

Long

Vicent avicent@glynncounty-

Wayne

ga.gov McIntosh

Wayne

McIntosh

Southwest Branch

Pierce

tbeebe@gainesville.org

Lanier

Camden Effingham

Charlton Bulloch

Candler

Bacon

Atkinson

Lanier

Glynn

Brantley

Bacon

Atkinson Todd Beebe

Berrien

Shauncey Battle-Williams Decatur Grady Thomas sbattle-williams@AtlantaGa.Gov Decatur Lowndes Grady Thomas Brooks

Seminole

Screven

Appling

Northeast Branch

Berrien

McIntosh

Ware

wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com

Tift

Coastal Branch Keith Page

Wayne

Screven

Liberty

Jeff Davis

Coffee

Long

Pierce

Clinch Echols

Chatham

Liberty

Appling Middle Branch Scott Sullivan

Irwin

Bryan

Appling

Jenkins

Atkinson

Treutlen

Jeff Davis

Ben Hill

Evans

Bacon Jenkins

Emanuel

Montgomery FloridaToombs Wheeler

Telfair

Ben Hill

Irwin

Worth

Coffee

Lowndes Treutlen

Effingham

Tattnall

Burke

Montgomery Toombs Wheeler

Dodge

Lee Central Savannah Turner River Area

TerrellVacant Lee

Jeff Davis

Lanier Emanuel

Laurens Thomas Brooks

Wilcox

Turner

Terrell

Randolph

Seminole

Dooly

Irwin

Johnson

Bulloch

Burke

Ben Hill

Berrien

Dodge

Pulaski

Montgomery Toombs Wheeler Telfair

Cook

Laurens

Candler

Columbia Richmond

Johnson

Colquitt

Bleckley

Pulaski

Crisp

Quitman

Mitchell

South Carolina

Treutlen

GlascockJefferson

Dougherty Wilkinson Worth Washington Tift

Screven

Emanuel

Columbia

Jefferson

Decatur Grady Houston Bleckley

Dooly

Jenkins

Richmond

Wilcox

Wilkinson

South Carolina

Johnson

Laurens

McDuffie Dodge

Washington Turner

Lee

Burke

Washington

Warren Glascock

Crisp Hancock

Baldwin

Twiggs

Miller

Pulaski

Dooly Hancock

Twiggs Baker

Seminole Peach

Macon

Schley

Stewart

Jones

Houston

Macon

Schley Chattahoochee Marion

Terrell

Calhoun

Bibb Early

Crawford

Taylor

Muscogee

Chattahoochee Marion

Stewart

Monroe Clay

McDuffie Bleckley

Warren Taliaferro

Sumter

Putnam

Baldwin

Randolph

Bibb

Talbot Taylor

Muscogee

Webster

Jones

Monroe

Lamar

Upson Crawford

Talbot

Putnam

Jasper

Quitman

Taliaferro Peach

Macon Greene

Schley

Jasper Stewart

Upson

Greene Taylor

Richmond

Glascock Jefferson

Lincoln

Wilkes

South Carolina Columbia

McDuffie

Wilkinson

Twiggs

Houston

Newton

Hancock

Lincoln

Bibb

Oglethorpe Crawford

Oconee

Taliaferro

Baldwin

Wilkes

Upson

Clarke

Talbot

Marion Chattahoochee Morgan

Butts

Putnam

Oglethorpe

Oconee

Newton Muscogee

Spalding Lamar

Greene

Warren

Hart Elbert Jasper

Butts

Lincoln

Wilkes

Morgan

Pike Lamar JacksonClarke Madison Jones Monroe Elbert

WaltonMorgan

HenryButts

Pike

Henry

Franklin

Oglethorpe

Oconee

Newton

Madison

Meriwether

Harris

Clayton

Spalding

Troup

Barrow Troup

Rockdale

Henry

Stephens

Elbert

Clarke

Walton

Spalding

Barrow Gwinnett Walton

DeKalb

Fulton

Coweta

Heard

Alabama

Forsyth

Hart

Madison

Barrow

DeKalb

Fayette Jackson Coweta Banks

Rockdale

Fayette

Jackson

Clayton

Hall

Heard

Clayton

Douglas

Carroll

Banks

Franklin

Banks

Hall

Forsyth

FranklinRockdale Hart

Fulton

Dawson

DeKalb

Fulton

White DouglasHabersham

Lumpkin Hall

Gwinnett

Cobb

Paulding

Douglas

Haralson

Forsyth

Cobb

Paulding

Stephens

Dawson

Cherokee

Bartow

Carroll

Cherokee

Bartow

Haralson Polk

Dawson

Cherokee Pickens

Bartow

White Habersham

Lumpkin

Pickens

Towns White Rabun Habersham Polk LumpkinUnion Paulding Cobb StephensGwinnett

Fannin

Whitfield Murray

Rabun

North Carolina Rabun

Towns

Union

Whitfield Murray

Towns

Union

Gilmer

Gordon

Chattooga

Alabama

Dade

Fannin

Murray

Whitfield

Walker

Catoosa Tennessee

North Carolina

Catoosa

Dade

Brantley

Emanuel Haire

Glynn

GlynnEHaire@colquittga.org

Ware

Northwest Branch Ware

West Central Branch

Jeremy Bryson Clinch Clinch jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com Charlton

Echols

Charlton

Camden

James Mang jmang@columbusga.org

Echols

Florida Florida

CENTRAL SAVANNAH RIVER AREA

Central Savannah River Area Central Savannah River Area Vacant Vacant Vacant

COASTAL BRANCH Keith Page

Coastal Branch Keith Page Coastal Branch Keith Page bkpage@chathamcounty.org

bkpage@chathamcounty.org bkpage@chathamcounty.org METRO ATL ANTA BRANCH

Metro Atlanta Branch Shauncey Battle-Williams Metro Atlanta Branch

sbattle-williams@atlantaga.gov Shauncey Battle-Williams Shauncey Battle-Williams sbattle-williams@AtlantaGa.Gov sbattle-williams@AtlantaGa.Gov

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

MIDDLE BRANCH Scott Sullivan

Middle BranchScott Scott Sullivan Sullivan Middle Branch wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com

wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com NORTHEAST BRANCH Todd Beebe

Northeast Branch Northeast Branch tbeebe@gainesville.org

ToddBeebe Beebe Todd tbeebe@gainesville.org tbeebe@gainesville.org NORTHWEST BRANCH

Northwest Branch Jeremy Bryson Northwest Branch

jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com Jeremy Bryson Jeremy Bryson jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com

SOUTHEAST BRANCH

Southeast Southeast BranchTony Tony Tony VicentBranch

Vicent avicent@glynncountyVicent avicent@glynncountyavicent@glynncounty-ga.gov ga.gov ga.gov SOUTHWEST BRANCH

Southwest Branch Southwest Branch Emanuel Haire

Emanuel Haire ehaire@colquittga.org Emanuel Haire EHaire@colquittga.org EHaire@colquittga.org WEST CENTRAL BRANCH

West Central Branch James Mang

West Central Branch

jmang@columbusga.org James Mang James Mang jmang@columbusga.org

jmang@columbusga.org

Back to Contents

FROM THE DESK OF MEMBERSHIP COMMIT TEE CHAIRMAN, DWAYNE STOCKS

BECOME A MEMBER OF APWA APWA Membership has its privilege

emberships are extended to both current or past public works employees as well as to private company employees who interact with the American Public Works Association. Membership comes with the opportunity to share common goals, challenges, and solutions with Public Works professionals throughout North America. As a member, you’ll participate in local Chapter and Branch programs meetings – often at reduced pricing; gain exposure to more than 30,000 Public Works professionals; save money on the best education and training programs in Public Works, covering all disciplines with ability to receive CEUs and PDHs; gain free subscriptions to many infoNOW electronic networking communities and resources, including the APWA Reporter Magazine; receive free access to the Resource Center and registrations for live Click, Listen & Learn programs; and pay reduced pricing for books, videos, construction, water resources and more. As a member, you’ll save up to 42% on registration for PWX, the NORTH American Snow Conference and most nationally sponsored workshops and e-learning programs; earn your professional certification credentials; have networking opportunities at the national, local chapter and/or branch level; and receive discounts on advertising opportunities in the APWA Reporter Magazine and exhibitor space at the annual PWX* (*Corporate Crown Level Group Memberships only). APWA is your primary resource for public works-related knowledge. Become an Individual or Group Member of the APWA Individual APWA membership automatically includes a one-year membership to your local APWA or CPWA Chapter. Individual Membership is available to: • any official or employee (active, retired, or life) of a government agency, manufacturer, supplier, contractor, student, or consulting firm who is actively engaged in the field of Public Works. Group Membership is available to: • Student Groups, • Public Agency Groups, • One-Call Center/System Groups,

• Corporate Groups, • Prestige Corporate, and • Crown Corporate.

To learn more about APWA’s membership groups and how to become a Member, visit www.apwa.net.

Membership comes with the opportunity to share common goals, challenges, and solutions with Public Works professionals throughout North America.

Back to Contents

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS GROUP

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU

SALES

Wastewater Equipment Street Sweepers Refuse Equipment

SERVICE

SUPPORT

Inspection Equipment Vacuum Excavation Equipment Road Maintenance

855.552.3742 www.myEPG.com

MOBILE SERVICE

Branch Reports

METRO ATLANTA BRANCH S H A U N C E Y B AT T L E - W I L L I A M S , M E T R O AT L A N TA B R A N C H P R E S I D E N T

ot goodbye, just see you later. That opener may be a bit dramatic but indulge me here because I’m flooded with emotions. For the past two years, I’ve had the honor of serving as the President of the Metro Atlanta Branch of Georgia’s APWA. The women and men that preceded me in this role did not make it easy, as they left big shoes to fill – but I am always up for a good challenge and, oh, what a challenge it has been. The genesis of my Presidency was at the height of COVID in January 2020. By that time, we had a healthy list of speakers for monthly lunch and learns, ideas of inperson events – even some fun meet and greets – and I think it goes without

saying that we re-vamped quickly! We took some time off to gather ourselves, ensure everyone’s safety, then conducted virtual meetings in 2021. I was able to still think outside of the box and somehow reach people from their computers, even when they were rightfully tired of meeting virtually – but we did it! Throughout the year, we successfully hosted events that touched on some dynamic and diverse topics, and even held a socially distant in-person event in December. As I look back on my time as President, I am truly thankful to have had the opportunity to lead such a dynamic group of professionals. Even when I did not think I could do it, others believed in me. In fact, nearly six years ago, my then

Supervisor and fellow colleague, who held prominent positions within the APWA, took the time to have a very candid conversation with me about the history, benefits and reach of APWA. At the time, I was new to the Public Works profession and very eager to get my feet wet, and those two gentlemen were just as eager to welcome me into the organization. Since then, I’ve served in numerous capacities and, most recently, I was nominated for the national committee for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within the APWA. While I will no longer preside over meetings, events, or fundraisers for our local Branch, I’ll always be in attendance and cheering on the next group of leaders and members within the APWA.

NORTHEAST GEORGIA BRANCH TO D D B EEB E , NO RTH E A S T G EO RG IA B R AN CH P R ESI D EN T

As always, I encourage all Chapter members to attend our events and help support the Chapter.

Back to Contents

appy New Year from the NE Georgia Branch! As we enter 2022, we welcome the new election season of the APWA. In early December, we completed our Branch elections; I was re-elected as the Branch President, Johnnie Vickers (Hall County’s Solid Waste Director) was elected as Vice President, and Lynn Wheeler (Hall County’s Resource Recovery Administrative Secretary) as Branch Secretary. Along with the election, we covered the list of upcoming events, including The CPWM training in Athens, scheduled from January 25-28; our annual Equipment Show, scheduled on February 8 in Perry;

and the Annual Georgia Chapter meeting and CPWM training from August 9-12, 2022. I also gave a reminder that PWX 2022 is in Charlotte, from August 28-31, and is close to home; therefore, would be a short drive for anyone who wants to enjoy the PWX experience. Other topics included being on the lookout for emails on the Chapter Awards Program and reminding folks to submit content for the Georgia Reporter. As always, I encourage all Chapter members to attend our events and help support the Chapter. Wishing you all a safe, healthy and wonderful year to come!

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

Andrew bielecki

JEFF BODIFORD

(706) 255-8748

(251) 298-9398

andrew@secequip.com

jeffb@secequip.com

(706) 685-6900 info@secequip.com info@secequip.c

THE INFRASTRUCTURE

INVESTMENT AND

JOBS ACT WILL

DELIVER FOR

Georgia

President Biden and Vice President Harris support the Senate’s passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the largest long-term investment in our infrastructure and competitiveness in nearly a century. The need for action in Georgia is clear and recently released state-level data demonstrates that the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will deliver for Georgia. For decades, infrastructure in Georgia has suffered from a systemic lack of investment. In fact, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave Georgia a C- grade on its infrastructure report card. The historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will make life better for millions of Georgia residents, create a generation of good-paying union jobs and economic growth, and position the United States to win the 21st century. Specifically, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will:

Back to Contents

• Repair and rebuild our roads and bridges with a focus on climate change mitigation, resilience, equity, and safety for all users, including cyclists and pedestrians. In Georgia there are 374 bridges and over 2,260 miles of highway in poor condition. Since 2011, commute times have increased by 10.8% in Georgia and on average, each driver pays $375 per year in costs due to driving on roads in need of repair. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is the single largest dedicated bridge investment since the construction of the interstate highway system. Based on formula funding alone, Georgia would expect to receive $8.9 billion for federal-aid highway apportioned programs and $225 million for bridge replacement and repairs under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act over five years.

Georgia can also compete for the $12.5 billion Bridge Investment Program for economically significant bridges and nearly $16 billion of national funding in the bill dedicated for major projects that will deliver substantial economic benefits to communities.

• Improve healthy, sustainable transportation options for millions of Americans. Georgians who take public transportation spend an extra 74.1% of their time commuting and non-White households are 3.9 times more likely to commute via public transportation. 7% of trains and other transit vehicles in the state are past useful life. Based on formula funding alone, Georgia would expect to receive $1.4 billion over five years under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to improve public transportation options across the state.

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

• Build a network of EV chargers to facilitate long-distance travel and provide convenient charging options. The U.S. market share of plug-in electric vehicle (EV) sales is only onethird the size of the Chinese EV market. The President believes that must change. The bill invests $7.5 billion to build out the first-ever national network of EV chargers in the United States and is a critical element in the Biden-Harris Administration’s plan to accelerate the adoption of EVs to address the climate crisis and support domestic

manufacturing jobs. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Georgia would expect to receive $135 million over five years to support the expansion of an EV charging network in the state. Georgia will also have the opportunity to apply for the $2.5 billion in grant funding dedicated to EV charging in the bill. • Help connect every American to reliable high-speed internet. Broadband internet is necessary for Americans to do their jobs, to

T i g h T B u d g eT ? 70 million years in development. 50 years proven on roads like yours.

Reclamite® asphalt rejuvenator with Maltene Replacement Technology (MRT) restores ten miles of road and adds five or more years of service life for the cost of resurfacing one mile.

Pavement Technology, Inc. Real Science. Real Results. 1.800.333.6309

www.getmaltenes.com Reclamite® is a registered trademark of Ergon, inc.

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

participate equally in school learning, health care, and to stay connected. Yet 15% of Georgia households do not have an internet subscription, and 6% of Georgians live in areas where, under the FCC’s benchmark, there is no broadband infrastructure. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Georgia will receive a minimum allocation of $100 million to help provide broadband coverage across the state, including providing access to the at least 649,000 Georgians who currently lack it. And, under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, 3,187,000 or 31% of people in Georgia will be eligible for the Affordability Connectivity Benefit, which will help lowincome families afford internet access. • Prepare more of our infrastructure for the impacts of climate change, cyber attacks, and extreme weather events. From 2010 to 2020, Georgia has experienced 46 extreme weather events, costing the state up to $20 billion in damages. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, based on historical formula funding levels, Georgia will expect to receive $22 million over five years to protect against wildfires and $24 million to protect against cyberattacks. Georgians will also benefit from the bill’s historic $3.5 billion national investment in weatherization which will reduce energy costs for families. • Deliver clean drinking water to every American and eliminate the nation’s lead service lines and pipes. Currently, up to 10 million American households and 400,000 schools and child care centers lack safe drinking water. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, based on the traditional state revolving fund formula, Georgia will expect to receive $913 million over five years to improve water infrastructure across the state and ensure that clean, safe drinking water is a right in all communities. • Improve our nation’s airports. The United States built modern aviation, but our airports lag far behind our competitors. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, airports in Georgia would receive approximately $619 million for infrastructure development for airports over five years. Over the coming days and weeks, we will expect to receive additional data on the impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in Georgia.

Back to Contents

CITY OF ATLANTA EARNS TOP HONOR FOR

FLEET MANAGEMENT

By Antoinette Govan, Director of Communications & Community Engagement

he City of Atlanta Department of Public Works (DPW) was named Quality Fleet Management recipient by the 2021 Southeastern Governmental Fleet Management Association (SGFMA). Each year at the Annual Meeting, SGFMA presents the award on a department’s accomplishments. They are judged on originality, innovation, effectiveness, and applicability in their specific area; however, since SGFMA did not hold their Annual Meeting in 2020, the award for this year consisted of the past two years. Atlanta Public Works Commissioner Al Wiggins, Jr. says the recognition serves as confirmation of the quality of work the Atlanta Office of Fleet Services (OFS) provides. “I believe that operational efficiency and customer satisfaction is vitally important to ensuring that all city vehicles and equipment are in safe and reliable working condition while delivering essential and critical services,” says Wiggins. Program Management Officer Steve Thomas leads the Atlanta OFS, which is responsible for the overall management of over 5,800 vehicles and pieces of equipment citywide. Services provided include general light and heavy repair, scheduled preventive maintenance, vehicle emission inspections, body repairs, towing and road service. Thomas and his team ensure that all City departments have the necessary equipment to complete the work that serves the community most efficiently and effectively. He believes the award “validates that the City of Atlanta Fleet Operations is trending in the right direction,” and was honored to accept the award on behalf of his hardworking staff. “They have continued to provide world-class service for the city workforce and the residents,” Thomas said. The recognition for a job well done is a welcomed acknowledgement for Fleet team members who work in the shadows of more notable or public facing city servants, such as police, fire, and solid waste crews. Thomas says it is just one

example of the commitment Atlanta employees exhibit every day. “This is really a testament to their dedication and drive to continue to show up every day, even in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic, and focus on others rather than self.” In 1993, the SGFMA was established in South Carolina. In 2005, they expanded to include the entire southeast, and the association currently has over 950 members in six states.

“THIS IS REALLY A TESTAMENT TO THEIR DEDICATION AND DRIVE TO CONTINUE TO SHOW UP EVERY DAY, EVEN IN THE MIDST OF AN UNPRECEDENTED PANDEMIC, AND FOCUS ON OTHERS RATHER THAN SELF.” Back to Contents

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

Congratulations to Mayor-Elect Andre Dickens

Andre Dickens was elected as the 61st mayor of the City of Atlanta by 64% of the voters who voted in the runoff election on November 30, 2021. Prior to becoming the Mayor-Elect, he served as an at-large City Council member for two terms. In addition to serving in public office, Andre has been a businessman and nonprofit executive and is an engineer, deacon, father and native Atlantan. His career follows his passions, and his impact follows his commitment.

APWA Metro Atlanta Branch

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

Back to Contents

WHO YOU

GONNA

CALL Many technical people

By Stu Moring

Back to Contents

who move into management positions often find they may be missing the humanities or financial skills to be successful in their new roles; they may be at a loss as to who can help them bridge that gap. Naturally, you can hire a management consultant to guide your strategic planning or develop a budget, but are a group of MBAs or efficiency experts going to understand the operations of your infrastructure enough to really set the priorities to guide your work? Or you could hire a lawyer to clarify the laws and regulations that may govern your activities, but is your goal just to do what is the legal minimum to satisfy a requirement? Or would it be better to consult with a team of other “left-brain” people, who have been in your position and faced the physical challenges that you have – for fitting a sewer into the already congested territory underneath your city streets – and dealt with the challenges of explaining the job to a part-time city council or an unhappy resident? Perhaps you have a backhoe

operator who doesn’t understand why his own safety dictates the need for a shiny safety vest, or rollover protection; can a lawyer or an accountant help in resolving that problem? If you are lucky, you may have mentors in your workplace who can provide the guidance you need to understand the best approach to your jobsite issues and how to present them to others. Mentorship is a growing expectation in the public works realm, and there are several valuable guides to establishing such programs. What if your mentor is an expert on roadway design or wastewater plant maintenance, and you need to develop a presentation to the chamber of commerce on the priorities for new construction? Thankfully, the American Society of Civil Engineers has a program to allow of group of your peers to meet your staff,

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

review your facilities and documents, and provide some insights into ways that similar problems have been dealt with in other localities. The Public Agency Peer Review program is set up to bring together a small group of varied public works professionals to help you deal with the problems you are facing, or let you know when your operation is on the right track. The specific team will be tailored to the details you want to address – whether financial, project management or human resources. All our team members are seasoned public sector engineers, and some have special expertise in planning, transportation, financial operations, or city management, among other areas. And they all work on a pro bono basis, so the process is fast and economical as well. Feedback from the dozens of organizations that have had Peer Reviews has been very positive, and many of them have had follow-up Reviews done subsequently. In Georgia, recent Reviews have been completed for the City of Roswell, Dekalb County, Gainesville Water Utility and Georgia DOT, and the very first Peer Review about 30 years ago was for

“

PUBLIC AGENCY PEER REVIEWS HAVE BEEN CONDUCTED FOR OVER 100 ORGANIZATIONS ACROSS THE COUNTRY AND HAVE DEMONSTRATED MANY ADVANTAGES.

the Savannah District, Corps of Engineers. Almost universally, the agencies reviewed have received high marks for working on continuous improvement through undertaking this assessment. Over the years, some patterns have emerged; most commonly there has been an issue with communications. Often there is a problem with management understanding the culture or concerns of the field workers, and just as frequently there is a sense that staff people are not kept apprised of what

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

the overall strategy is. In many cases, both are at issue. The Peer Review process can help identify such “hidden” problems through a series of interviews with a representation of staff members, and the interview method has the added benefit of helping the employees recognize that their viewpoints are heard and considered. I believe that is one of the most important attributes of the Peer Review process. Public Agency Peer Reviews have been conducted for over 100 organizations across the country and have demonstrated many advantages. For newly appointed managers, it is a rapid means to gain an understanding of the culture that makes the work happen. Oftentimes, policy statements are handed down, and only marginally understood by the working staff; this process can help you gauge that level of understanding. Or perhaps there is a dispute between different individuals or teams, and the confidential interviews can discern factors that a staff member would never share with his supervisor. But most often, a Peer Review will validate the strengths of a department while identifying opportunities for growth. You may already be familiar with the APWA Accreditation program, which has similar objectives. It is a very comprehensive process that evaluates organizations in great depth and provides a model for organizational changes. In contrast, Peer Review is a much shorter activity that provides a “snapshot” of the agency and relatively short-term ideas for change. It requires much less commitment of senior staff time and a shorter time overall. From the time when a decision is made to proceed, a Peer Review can be undertaken in three to four months. If you have questions, please contact Past President Stu Moring at smoring@aol.com for a no-obligation discussion..

Back to Contents

ME, AND YOU, TOO! By Shauncey Battle-Williams

DA turns 31 this year! Chances are you’re not sure what the ADA is. No, it’s not the American Dental Association… and it’s not the American Diabetes Association either. Although those are impactful organizations, I’m referring to the Americans with Disabilities Act, signed into law on July 26, 1990. by former President George H. W. Bush – kind of a big deal. The Act serves as civil rights legislation that prohibits discrimination and ensures that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as others and that they can participate in everyday American life. In other words, the Act, or ADA as it is known, is an “equal opportunity” law for those with disabilities. Specifically, title II of the ADA “prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in all programs, activities, and services of public entities. It applies to all state and local governments, their departments and agencies, and any other instrumentalities or special purpose districts of state or local governments. It clarifies the requirements of section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, for public transportation systems that receive federal financial assistance, and extends coverage to all public entities that provide public transportation, whether or not they receive federal financial assistance. It establishes detailed standards for the operation of public transit systems, including commuter and intercity rail.”1 You may be wondering how all of this affects you; because trust me, it could. The Center for Disease Control reports that

Back to Contents

nearly 61 million Americans live with disabilities, which is about 26% of our population. Being aware of ADA and having a heart and mind of inclusion is admirable but the reality of the ADA is that one day, we all may need its protection. “The ADA defines disability as having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a history or record of such an impairment, or being perceived by others as having such an impairment.”2 As we grow older, the prevalence of disability increases. There are also other factors like auto or work accidents, and even unknown medical emergencies that could create a disability in any one of us at any time. All of which means that we could identify as someone with a disability. This awareness is not an effort to spread gloom and doom, but rather to shed light on the importance and applicability of the ADA as it relates to everyday life, especially for pedestrians with disabilities. So next time, you repave the street, repair the sidewalk or re-install the pedestrian crosswalk, it may be for your own good.

Sources 1. “What is the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).” Title II (State and Local Government), October 2021 version, ADA National Network, adata.org. October 2021. 2. “What is the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).” Title II (State and Local Government), October 2021 version, ADA National Network, adata.org. October 2021. I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

WHAT CAN A WATER SYSTEM DO TO PREPARE FOR A

POWER OUTAGE?

As wildfires and other extreme weather events take their toll on water system security, including a Public Safety Power Shutoff program as part of an emergency response plan can keep your system running when it counts the most.

Imagine it’s a hot, windy day. Suddenly, your utility building’s lights flicker and the power is off. The heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system sigh and goes quiet. The whine of your water system’s pumps and motors slows to an eerie silence. The supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) screens blink once and go dark. You think they’ll be back on in a minute or two, but the person on the radio (yes, you have a battery radio on your desk because you’re prepared) says something’s wrong all over the region. Or maybe it’s a text message from the local power company advising that high winds are coming and electrical distribution has been cut for a few days to prevent wildfires. You have some generators in place, but most don’t have automatic transfer switches. And the fuel tanks are low. What are you going to do? After devastating wildfires in California in recent years, the state’s electric power companies began a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) program to help prevent fires caused by high winds damaging their transmission and distribution lines. At the beginning of summer 2019, the power utilities announced they’d begin preemptive PSPSs whenever conditions warranted – high temperatures, low humidity, high winds, and low vegetation moisture content. In October 2019, the first large-scale PSPS

Back to Contents

event occurred – one of three in October and November 2019. Most service areas were shut off for one to three days, but some areas were shut off for up to five days. PLANNING FOR POWER OUTAGES The actual number of customers affected by the PSPS events wasn’t calculated by the power utilities, but more than 3 million service connections were cut off. The number of people affected could have been anywhere from 7 million on the low end to more than 10 million on the high end. Thousands of water systems were affected. What did the PSPS events mean for water utilities? With only a few months’ notice, many water systems weren’t able to adequately prepare. Ultimately, those that couldn’t or didn’t fully prepare and then experienced prolonged periods of power outages had difficulty maintaining water in their systems and a host of other issues. Some unfortunate systems in California even lost all their water, depressurized, and went on boil-water notices. Subsequently, the California Water/ Wastewater Agency Response Network (CalWARN), the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) drinking water program, California’s Division of Drinking Water, AWWA’s California-Nevada Section, and California power utilities

began discussions to help water utilities prepare. USEPA’s Water Security Division held workshops and convened a work group to develop checklists (https://bit. ly/3iGENIK), California-specific guidance, and a standard operating procedure (SOP). These materials were used to help prepare the Power Resilience Guide for Water and Wastewater Utilities, available at https://bit.ly/2H4n7sp. To successfully handle a planned or unexpected power loss requires preplanning, preparation, and an appropriate emergency response plan. PSPS events require an additional level of preparedness and a day or two to get things ready. That time shouldn’t be spent thinking about what to do but doing what needs to get done. This article presents some of the necessary steps utilities must take to prepare for these events. For the most part, work can be done well ahead of a PSPS event, so when the lights do go out, your primary job will be to watch, monitor, and maintain. Preparation for PSPS events has two components: “blue-sky” planning done well before an anticipated shutoff and “48hour warning” activities to prepare for the impending event. The topics are basically the same, but the work is quite different for critical infrastructure, generators, fuel, SCADA, communications (internal, external, professional, and public/media),

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

WHAT CAN A WATER SYSTEM DO TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE?

partnerships, staffing, access, and safety. The more blue-sky planning you do, the better off you’ll be when a 48-hour PSPS event notification occurs. BLUE-SKY PLANNING FOR POWER OUTAGES Critical Infrastructure Treatment plants, wells, and booster stations are all examples of critical system components, but perhaps they don’t all need to run at the same time. Figure out what needs to run and when, and keep those details in mind while obtaining equipment. The concept of backup power is well-known, and many water systems already implement backup power at key stations. Typically, this takes the form of a generator. However, before the advent of a PSPS event, most systems wouldn’t have expected to go days running on backup power, nor would they anticipate running an entire water system on backup power supply. But what’s considered normal has changed, and many of the lessons learned during the 2019 PSPS events shed light on what it means to be resilient in a new age when having grid power isn’t a guarantee.

Generators Once you know which of your facilities and equipment you need to provide power to, you’ll want to find a generator or appropriate power source. First, generators need to be sized based on the capacity of what they’re going to run. It typically takes a specialist to size these units properly. The sooner you get started on this, the better. Keep in mind that everyone will be looking for generators when the event is about to happen. Getting a head start could be the difference between having backup power or not, and that’s ultimately the difference between a wet or dry system. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Emergency Power Facility Assessment Tool (EPFAT) is a useful way to evaluate your needs (https://bit.ly/3hxS8S1). Is the generator fixed or portable? Portable generators provide versatility and can be moved around the water system if, when, and where needed. Be clever. Are there ways you can operate properly with fewer generators? Fuel Once you have a generator, remember it’s a machine that needs fuel. What type of

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

fuel will it take: diesel, propane, perhaps natural gas? Be sure to know what you need and to have a supplier ready if you need more. Determine how long each generator can run before it needs more fuel. This will help you determine how long you can operate equipment and plan fueling routes to ensure everything keeps running. Another important fuel consideration is keeping it clean. Be mindful of the containers used to store fuel. Some are fabricated of better material than others for long-term storage. Containers that aren’t airtight could cause bugs and debris to build up in the fuel, rendering it unusable. Take this seriously because dirty fuel will slow or even stop a generator from operating. Like dirty oil in a car, tainted fuel will reduce the equipment’s life span. Testing fuel integrity is an option, and some systems do this type of check regularly. You can run smaller equipment on different types of backup power, including batteries and solar panels. Evaluate your options for small pumps, programmable logic controllers, analyzers, and more. Determine power consumption for devices and obtain appropriate power accordingly.

Back to Contents

WHAT CAN A WATER SYSTEM DO TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE?

SCADA Your SCADA system is just as important as having a reliable generator. Being able to see and run your system normally, likely without physically being present, is necessary to ensure adequate water flow. If your storage tanks can’t communicate with your source, the source can’t tell when the tank is draining or when it’s full. Things can quickly go awry if that happens. Don’t let SCADA technology be the weak link in your PSPS execution. Communications Internal parties in your organization, external emergency responders, and the public and media will require constant contact during a PSPS emergency. Keep cell phones charged and have backup options for long-term charging. Remember that cell towers also need electricity to function, and instances of cell service being unavailable during emergencies have been reported. Keep this in mind, and develop backup communication plans and options. You need to be able to direct staff, report

to and inquire with outside parties, and interact with the public and media. All will likely have many questions about job duties; status updates; and, most important, water service availability. Take time to build out other communication methods. Can you use radio or walkie-talkies (handheld radio transceivers) for internal communication? Do you have a landline that can function if cell service goes out? In a pinch, good old-fashioned face-toface communication, with appropriate social distancing measures in place given the pandemic, will get the job done. Get a list of important people and addresses, and develop meeting plans and locations if necessary. You’ll also need to consider what you’ll tell the public. Draft appropriate messages to your customers on what they can expect. Develop fill-inthe-blank press releases for later use.

and staffing, the more successful you’re going to be when a PSPS event happens. This is where help comes in. Build a strong network. Have connections, backup connections, and backups to the backups! It can be helpful to reach out before an event to discuss options with your partners or even just to let them know you may need their services soon. State Water/Wastewater Agency Response Networks (WARNs) are an excellent resource to use in an emergency. WARNs allow users to reach out quickly and on a large scale to water systems within the WARN. These can help coordinate all sorts of help, including staffing, supplies, equipment, and much more. WARNs are also typically plugged into state emergency operation centers, which provide another level of support during an emergency. Sign up for your state WARN well before an emergency happens. This will ensure you can use the network to its fullest during times of need. For details, visit www.awwa.org/warn.

Partnerships As the saying goes, you’re only as strong as your team. The better connected you are in terms of mutual aid for supplies

Staffing Enduring a prolonged PSPS event entails coordinating staffing levels as shifts modify to run a system more manually. Your system may

REPAIR. RESTORE. PROTECT.

Engineered Restorations is a specialty contracting company delivering restoration, repair, waterprooﬁng, and protection services for structures of all types. STRUCTURAL REPAIR | RESTORATION | WATERPROOFING | PRESERVATION 225 Buford Drive, Suite A, Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770.682.0650 | er-inc.net

Back to Contents

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

WHAT CAN A WATER SYSTEM DO TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE?

need increased monitoring to ensure water supply, yet you only have a fixed number of staff. Understanding what will need to be watched and determining how much extra time may be needed will help you establish an appropriate schedule. Divvy up staff time to ensure key areas are covered and staff get much-needed rest. Expect things to go wrong, so plan for some flexibility in your PSPS response. Consider these factors as you build schedules. Access This may sound like a no-brainer, but issues arose in previous PSPS events regarding facility access. Do all staff have access to locked doors, gates, generator keys, etc.? Staff may need to access areas unexpectedly, so either set up accessibility for all staff or provide a mechanism to gain quick access during a PSPS event. Parties outside of your organization may need to gain access to your facilities as well. For example, fuel delivery trucks will need to reach the generator sites. There have been cases of the roads leading to facilities being blocked. Understanding where problems could arise and developing informed solutions ahead of time will save a lot of time and trouble. Safety As always, personal safety is of utmost importance. During moments of heightened activity, the propensity for shortcutting safety protocols increases the likelihood of making mistakes. Some mistakes can be life-threatening, so extra care should be taken to mitigate potential hazards. For a PSPS event, some safety concerns include heavy equipment operation, fume inhalation, and staff exhaustion. Spend time brainstorming other safety concerns. Keep those in mind, and practice, practice, practice. 48-HOUR WARNING ACTIVITIES Generators At 48 hours out, it’s time to do a last check of the generators and backup power options you’ve worked so hard to obtain. Do a physical inspection. Fire them up if possible. If your generator is on automatic start, can you simulate conditions and have it start and run under a full load? If you’re using batteries or solar cells, turn them on to ensure they function properly.

Sign up for your state WARN well before an emergency happens. This will ensure you can use the network to its fullest during times of need.

Fuel Hopefully, you’ve maintained your fuel appropriately. Inspect it and check for any potential issues. Have backup suppliers ready to provide more fuel if and when necessary. SCADA At this point, you should have a backup power supply set up for your SCADA system. Because SCADA is such a vital part of running a water system, triple-check it will work. If your SCADA system goes down, it will cost staff a lot more time and energy to maintain the water system. Avoid burnout by keeping your SCADA system functioning. Communications Now is the time to hand out radios, walkietalkies, and any other communication devices you may have on hand. Check batteries, obtain spare batteries, check landlines, etc. Check with staff about charging capabilities for their electronic communication devices. Charging devices in cars or with portable chargers is a great option. Remember that not only is the water system losing power, it’s also likely staff will lose power at their homes as well. Keep your devices fully charged as much as possible at this stage. Run a communications test to ensure equipment is working and staff members understand its operation. It’s also time to provide information to your customers, civic leaders, and the media on what to expect and whom

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

to contact. If you expect pressure problems, water shortages, or outages, they need to know. Partnerships Have your list of contacts ready. It’s time to touch base with your professional emergency response colleagues at your local and state agencies. Share what you know and what you might expect. Staffing Look over and adjust schedules as appropriate. Give enough buffer between shifts to allow for ample breaks, and be prepared for staff who may need to call out to attend to personal issues that arise from a PSPS event. Access Internally, double-check that all staff (even those who may not appear to need it) have avenues to access sites. Externally, be available for outside parties to contact you with site accessibility issues. Keep your list of partnerships available to help address accessibility. Safety Remind staff that no job is worth risking safety. Also, remind staff members of their training, and implement any safety procedures that have been developed. T-MINUS ZERO AND ONWARD At T-minus zero, the lights flicker and the power is off. But you’re ready! Although this article addresses ways to prepare for this moment, be sure your PSPS

Back to Contents

WHAT CAN A WATER SYSTEM DO TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE?

SOP fully describes activities at T-minus zero as well as T-plus 24 hours and beyond. Power loss can have devastating impacts on drinking water and wastewater utilities and the communities they serve. Act now to increase power resilience at drinking water and wastewater utilities. Yvonne Heaney is with the California State Water Resources Control Board (www.waterboards.ca.gov), San Francisco. Jim Wollbrinck is with San Jose Water (www.sjwater.com), San Jose, California. Bruce A. Macler is a trustee with AWWA’s Small Systems Division.

Back to Contents

As always, personal safety is of utmost importance. During moments of heightened activity, the propensity for shortcutting safety protocols increases the likelihood of making mistakes.

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

MEDIUM WATER UTILITIES DEFEND THEMSELVES Recently, hackers breached a large water utility in the southeast by starting with a phishing email. While the precise technical details of the cyber-attack are confidential, small and medium water utilities can still learn a lot from it. Large water utilities generally have large, very talented, well-resourced information technology

teams and have already made significant investments in the cybersecurity of their Information Technology (IT) and Operations Technology (OT) networks. No network is ever completely secure, and the recent breach turned into a great example of what doing things right looks like. The utility contained the attack within one segment of their IT network and its operations were minimally impacted. This is a huge win.

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

The big takeaway: cybersecurity investments pay off. In contrast, last year, hackers breached a small water utility in Colorado and ransomed a large part of its network. The utility had not prepared for this type of attack. Thankfully, they refused to pay the ransom. They restored their data on their own, but lost access to critical parts of their IT network for more than three weeks.

Back to Contents

They brought in outside help and spent six figures on new data infrastructure to reduce the likelihood of a future attack. Small and medium water utilities need to plan for modern threats, make investments in cybersecurity, and plan for outages. If large utilities with excellent IT teams can be breached, that means that small and medium water utilities without large IT teams need to bring in outside cybersecurity help. WHY SMALL AND MEDIUM WATER UTILITIES ARE TARGETS Foreign governments and for-profit hacking groups are the two types of attackers most likely to target utilities. Most foreign adversaries may not spy on small and medium water utilities because the populations they serve are too small to cause large-scale chaos in the event of a war with the United States. However, for-profit hacking groups are interested in small and medium utilities. They are looking for targets that can net mid-five to mid-six figure payouts. These payouts are collected either by ransomware or by selling customers’ personally identifiable information (PII), also called nonpublic personal information (NPI) in some contexts. According to Symantec, social security numbers sell for an average of $0.80 on the dark web, driver’s licenses sell for a minimum of $25 each, and complete identities sell for an average of $65 each. A small water utility collecting this information on 5,000 customers can easily net cyber thieves a six-figure payout just from PII. Small water utilities are very lucrative targets for cybercrime. ENGAGE WITH THE CYBERSECURITY COMMUNITY NOW If a utility hasn’t started assessing its cyber risks and planning for outages, start now.

Back to Contents

The America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) requires small and medium water utilities to assess cyber risks and develop an Incident Response Plan (IRP) for cyberattacks by December 2020 for medium utilities and June 2021 for small ones. The recent cyber-attacks mean this problem is urgent and needs to be addressed now, not next year. DEFENSE-IN-DEPTH The best possible outcome of a cyber breach is that it’s contained, and operations are minimally impacted. This happened in the recent attack on the large utility in the southeast. It’s what the right response looks like. Common investments in cybersecurity include implementing a defense-in-depth strategy – creating layers of security in the enterprise. Practically, this includes endpoint protection, cybersecurity appliances on the network, and employee training either in-person or online. Small and medium water utilities may not be able to invest millions in an advanced network security stack, but cloud-based solutions are available. Defense-in-depth also includes risk assessments, access controls, vulnerability management, cybersecurity policies, and many other factors. PHYSICALLY SEPARATE IT FROM OT NETWORKS It is costly but essential to create physically separate networks for IT and OT networks. This includes separate jacks, cable, switches, and all physical hardware. The US military physically separates networks carrying unclassified and classified information. Think of OT systems as classified information, systems so critical they’re worth separating from IT systems handling everyday info. Physically disconnect the OT network from the internet. No physical internet connection

exists between the military’s classified and unclassified networks. Nor is there a good enough reason for your OT network to be connected to the internet. PLAN FOR OUTAGES This is worth repeating – no network is ever completely secure. The CRAG rule of cybersecurity is: If it exists, it will be hacked. A robust Incident Response Plan (IRP) is essential. Utilities are very familiar with Emergency Response Plans (ERPs), and an IRP is the same thing for information systems. If you hire a consultant for AWIA compliance, make sure they complete an IRP for cybersecurity risks. CONDUCT TABLETOP EXERCISES A robust cybersecurity program includes planning and practicing for data infrastructure outages. Know how to immediately shut down the compromised systems and switch to alternate systems to maintain continuity of operations. Train for these contingencies and conduct tabletop exercises simulating an outage. Training pays off – as we’ve seen with recent attacks. ENGAGE WITH INFORMATION SHARING NETWORKS Isolation makes for easy targets. Engage your water utility with threat sharing networks. Such as Water-ISAC: www.waterisac.org.

Brad Hamlett is the Founder of the Cyber Risk Analysis Group (CRAG), a consulting firm specializing in cybersecurity for water utilities. Before founding CRAG, he worked as a Senior Intelligence Analyst and Senior Information Technology Specialist for the U.S. Army at domestic and overseas locations. He can be reached directly at brad@crag443.com.

I s s u e 4 – D e ce m b e r/J a n u a r y 2 0 2 2 | G E O R G I A P U B L I C W O R K S

Georgia APWA News

APWA AWARDS NOMINATIONS Explore the list of available awards and their criteria, and learn how to nominate an individual or group for their professional contributions.

he APWA Awards Program recognizes outstanding individuals, groups and chapters representing the best in public works. Explore the list of available awards and their criteria, and learn how to nominate an individual or group for their professional contributions.

Due Dates

APWA will accept nominations until the deadlines listed below. • PACE Award – Wednesday, June 1, 2022. Chapters must first be notified they qualify to submit for this award. • All other awards not listed above – Tuesday, March 1, 2022, midnight Eastern Time.

Timelines:

360°Camera System Backeye®360 is an intelligent camera monitor system that provides the driver with a bird’s-eye, 360° view of the vehicle in a single image.

• After the deadline has passed, staff does a preliminary review of the nomination form associated with the submission. • The nominations are prepared online for the judges portal and each judge will receive the information to begin judging. • Each committee has approximately three weeks to review and score. • The committee then meets by conference call to review the scores and select the recipients to receive the award. • These conference calls usually take place in the middle of April, except the Top Ten Public Works Leaders which take place at the end of March. • The Excellence in Snow and Ice Control Award has a preliminary review committee then they are reviewed by another committee that selects the recipients in February. • The PACE (Presidential Award for Chapter Excellence) recipients are chosen in June.

Resources Phone: 800.910.2885 Email: info@knrgroup.com web: knrgroup.com

Proudly Doing Business in the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida since 1993 28

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

Georgia Public Works 2.indd 1

19/08/2020 16:57

Chapter and Branch officers can access examples of previous winning submission in the Chapter Leader Resource area under Awards. If you are currently not a member of the APWA or do not have access to this area, please contact Rhonda Wilhite, Awards and Chapter Relations Associate at rwilhite@apwa.net or 800-848-2792 ext. 5261.

Back to Contents

INTERACTIVE EDITION available online With print and electronic communication operating hand-in-hand you can take advantage of the fact that Georgia Public Works is also available online in a highly interactive format.

THE OFFICIAL STATE PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION | ISSUE 4 – DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022

THE INFRASTRUCTURE

THE OFFICIAL STATE PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION | ISSUE 4 – DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022

INVESTMENT AND

JOBS ACT WILL

DELIVER FOR

Georgia

Inside

• City of Atlanta Earns Top Honor for Fleet Management • Who You Gonna Call? • ADA, Me, and You, too!

954461_Atlantic.indd 1

THE INFRASTRUCTURE

INVESTMENT AND

JOBS ACT WILL

DELIVER FOR

Georgia

Inside

• City of Atlanta Earns Top Honor for Fleet Management • Who You Gonna Call? • ADA, Me, and You, too!

THE OFFICIAL STATE PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION | ISSUE 4 – DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022

THE INFRASTRUCTURE

INVESTMENT AND

JOBS ACT WILL

DELIVER FOR

Mobile, iPad, iPhone versions included! 1. A realistic reading experience – This digital edition looks and feels like a real book: flip-through pages, the sounds of turning pages, and even shading along the spine all enhance your reading experience. This is the world’s first full html5 solution on the market giving you the same interactive experience as the flash version. In addition to the book layout, you can also select a presentation view that presents single pages rather than the traditional double page layout. 2. Mobile, iPad, iPhone compatibility – The html5 resizes the publication automatically so that you can view the magazine on most mobile devices. 3. eReader output – The eReader output option allows you to download ‘eBook’ files so that you can read the magazine on the growing number of eReaders such as Kindle, Nook and iBooks. 4. Thumbnail view – You can select to show a thumbnail-style navigation panel that allows you to view the entire publication at once.

Georgia

Inside

• City of Atlanta Earns Top Honor for Fleet Management • Who You Gonna Call? • ADA, Me, and You, too!

5. A share feature – You can share the digital publication with friends and colleagues via social networks, including Facebook and Twitter, or via email or google. 6. Active hyperlinks connect you with all websites and emails contained in the publication. 7. Active links connect you to specific stories from the front cover and contents page. 8. Active links connect you to advertiser websites from their ads and the ad index. 9. Searchable and zoomable content allows you to search the entire issue for specific words, phrases, subjects, etc. 10. You can make Georgia Public Works’ content even more valuable by adding your own personal notes and bookmarks throughout each issue.

To experience Georgia Public Works online, visit www.georgia.apwa.net

28/03/19 2:03 PM

Advertiser Product & Service Center GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS MAGAZINE is made possible by the companies below who convey their important messages on our pages. We thank them for their support of the APWA Georgia Chapter and its publication and encourage you to contact them when making your purchasing decisions. To make it easier to contact these companies, we have included the page number of their advertisement, their phone number, and, where applicable, their website.

Advertiser

Page

Phone

Asphalt Paving Systems

912-800-3980

www.asphaltpavingsystems.com

Atlantic & Southern Equipment, LLC

404-361-1100

www.atlanticandsouthern.com

ClearWater Solutions, LLC

877-230-6228

www.clearwatersol.com

Engineered Restorations, Inc.

770-682-0650

www.er-inc.net

Environmental Products Group

404-693-9700

www.epofc.com

Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions, Inc.

601-933-3000

www.ergonasphalt.com

Flint Equipment Company

H.D. Industries, Inc.

800-256-6126

www.pro-patch.com

7, 28

800-910-2885

www.knrgroup.com

MowerMax Equipment Co.

813-781-0100

www.mowermax.com

Pavement Technology, Inc.

800-333-6309

www.pavetechinc.com

Sansom Equipment Company

706-685-6900

www.secequip.com

Synagro Technologies, Inc.

800-370-0035

www.synagro.com

Tradewinds Power Corp

800-223-3289

www.tradewindspower.com

Unique Paving Materials

800-441-4880

www.uniquepavingmaterials.com

K&R Group

www.flintequipco.com

Contact Rod Evason to put Georgia Public Works to work for you. To reach Georgia’s Public Works professionals through Georgia Public Works and its targeted readership, contact Rod at your earliest convenience to discuss your company’s promotional plans.

G EO RG IA PU B LI C WO RKS | w w w.g e o rg ia . a pwa . n et

Website

Rod Evason Marketing Manager P 877-985-9710 E rod@kelman.ca

Published for APWA – Georgia Chapter by

Back to Contents

Our Uptime Specialist Has Been Upgraded.

The John Deere L series backhoes at Flint deliver even more. The 3 and 4 series run with the updated 4.5L PowerTech EWL engine featuring more power and torque. The 310SL is outfitted with the best PCLS hydraulics that increase productivity and cycle times. Learn more at FlintEquipCo.com.

flintequipco.com Adairsville, GA ............770.773.9857 Albany, GA ................. 229.888.1212 Andrews, SC.............. 843.221.4940 Atlanta, GA ...............404.691.9445 Aynor, SC................. 843.358.5688

Braselton, GA ............ 770.965.1889 Brunswick, GA .............912.264.6161 Columbus, GA............706.687.3344 Cuthbert, GA .............. 229.732.2631 Dothan, AL ................334.794.8691

Grovetown, GA ......... 706.855.5440 Ladson, SC............... 843.572.0400 Macon, GA................ 478.788.1586 Savannah, GA .............912.964.7370 Simpsonville, SC........ 864.963.5835

Troy, AL...........................334.566.4181 Valdosta, GA .................. 229.474.6680 Walterboro, SC ................ 843.539.1420 West Columbia, SC .......... 803.794.9340

THIS PAIRING IS A CUT ABOVE THE REST. When you pair Massey Ferguson versatility with Diamond Mowers reliability, no mowing tasks are beyond our reach. Easily maneuver over ditches, tricky slopes and tough terrain with the rock-solid stability of a Massey Ferguson® tractor. Achieve the perfect cut, even next to obstacles like fences and trees, with our wide variety of Massey Ferguson tractors and Diamond boom mowers. Then call it a day — your tasks have been handled.

www.AtlanticAndSouthern.com

FIND ALL OF THESE BRANDS ON THE CURRENT STATE OF GEORGIA TRACTOR & MOWER CONTRACT STATE OF GEORGIA CONTRACT 99999-001-SPD0000177-0016

GOVERNMENTAL SALES Taylor Grout • (470) 630-2203 Taylor_Grout@AtlanticAndSouthern.com

Tifton, GA 4186 US 82 W (229) 339-8010

Lake City, GA 1642 Forest Parkway (404) 487-0350

Georgia Public Works Magazine | Issue 4 – December/January 2022

Articles inside

Who You Gonna Call?

ADA, Me, and You, too

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will Deliver for Georgia

What Can a Water System do to Prepare for a Power Outage?