ASHLAND — This week the city of Ashland is honoring our nearly 300 employees for their service and dedication as part of Public Service Recognition Week.
This annual recognition acknowledges the important work that positively affects all of us every day and is an opportunity to thank the committed men and women who keep our city vibrant and safe.
Our local government is comprised of over 20 different offices and departments performing a variety of functions — fixing utility lines, manicuring baseball fields, providing emergency medical services and everything in between.
Hear from some of our colleagues about their time serving our community with the city of Ashland:
Ken Lora — City Street Department, three years with the city of Ashland
Starting as a temporary employee in our Parks Department, Lora admits there was a lot to take in when he joined the city’s Street Department several years ago — but thanks to his willingness to learn, a reputable work ethic and support from his supervisor and coworkers, he now plays a key role in keeping Ashland safe and sparkling.
“For me, public service is helping the city out by any means necessary — whether it’s fixing a sidewalk or drain, or hanging decorations downtown. It’s bringing life to the city by decorating for Christmas, helping keep the streets safe in the wintertime in the plow and so much more. Just knowing I am making a difference in my city, that makes me happy and I take a lot of pride in it.
“You do many different jobs in whatever role you have in public service and if you appreciate the work you’re doing, it can be very rewarding.”
Melissa Trukovich — Law director’s office, 26 years with the city
What began as a senior-year career exploration placement in the city law director’s office has grown into a dynamic career for Trukovich these past 26 years. A true jack of all trades, her days range from filing subpoenas and compiling discovery materials for our attorneys to offering patience, compassion and guidance to victims navigating the legal system on some of their most difficult days.
“There is responsibility in being in public service — it’s about seeing the bigger picture, helping people and recognizing that everyone benefits when people care enough to contribute and work together. I’m fortunate to work hand in hand with some spectacular people, all working to solve problems and make a difference in our community.
“You’ll have challenging days, but it is so meaningful and rewarding to work in a position where you have the opportunity to truly impact lives.”
Cody Uhler — Ashland Fire Division, seven years with the city
Initially pursuing an engineering degree in Cincinnati, Uhler’s path shifted after a phone call with a family friend — an experience that ultimately led him back to his hometown and into a career of public service. As a firefighter/paramedic, his work often demands quick thinking and decisive action in high-pressure situations. Yet, some of his most meaningful moments come when he has the chance to slow down and connect with members of the community he might not otherwise meet.
“People call us because they don’t necessarily know where to turn for help, so we help bridge the gap between the public and other community resources. Public service is everything you make of it, and even when something may not seem like a big deal to you, it can mean everything to the person you’re helping. That’s your opportunity to truly impact a life.
“Every job has its set of duties, but being a public servant allows you that broader scope — the chance to make a real difference in someone’s life.”
Leah Zeisler — Ashland Police Division, nine years with the city
Zeisler began her career in public service just one day after graduating from the police academy 11 years ago, starting in corrections at the Ashland County Jail. For the past nine years, she has served as an officer with the Ashland Police Division, where many in the community have likely seen her alongside her golden retriever partner, Willow — APD’s Crisis and Therapy K9 — doing what she does best, helping others and building meaningful relationships with citizens.
“In this line of public service, you have to be willing to sacrifice your own safety and comfort for the greater good of others. The calls that mean the most to me are the ones where I can help people who can’t help themselves — especially kids. They’ve always been my soft spot and it’s incredibly fulfilling to be someone who can help them through difficult situations.”
“I truly feel like I work with the best people here at the police department. We hold ourselves to a higher standard — not only in keeping the city safe, but also in building trust within our community.”
We’d like to say “thank you” to all of the men and women that serve our city — this week and every week.
Interested in joining the city’s team? Visit its website to learn more about current openings with the city of Ashland.