Looking for public servants who go the Extra Mile

Rod Pfeifle with the Department of Natural Resources started the Forest Improvement Treatment Program in the Southwest Region to help solve the rapid decline in the health of Eastern Washington forests.

The Department of Transportation’s Paul Simonsen developed a cheaper, liquid chemical product that melts snow and ice at temperatures to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Department of Social and Health Services, Region 1 Community Service Division Disaster Food Assistance Program employees worked tirelessly to process food assistance applications and assist families impacted by the December 2007 storm to regain some semblance of a normal life.

What do these people have in common?  They are all Washington state employees who have been honored with the Extra Mile Award.

The State Productivity Board is asking the public and state workers to nominate public employees who have gone the extra mile.

Each year, the Extra Mile Award is given to individuals or groups of public employees who surpass expectations for exemplary public service by demonstrating at least one of the following attributes: 
• Execute an innovative solution.
• Improve efficiency.
• Exhibit visionary thinking.
• Overcome great odds or disadvantages.
• Demonstrate personal valor or bravery.

“Washington has many state employees who go beyond the call of duty in performing their jobs,” said Secretary of State Sam Reed, chair of the state Productivity Board. “This is an excellent opportunity to honor exceptional state employees for the service they provide.” 

Nomination forms may be downloaded at www.secstate.wa.gov/productivityboard/. Nominations are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2009.
Submit nomination forms by regular mail to: The Productivity Board,
PO Box 40244, Olympia, WA 98504-0244. Forms can also be submitted via fax at (360) 704-7830 or e-mail at: innovate@secstate.wa.gov .

For more information, call (360) 704-5203.