Messimer Earns Advanced Surface Water License

Trey Messimer, Olney’s water treatment plant operator, has earned his Class B surface-water license, giving the City a level of in-house expertise that city officials say is unusual for a small municipality.

Public Works Director Michael Jacoba announced Mr. Messimer’s accomplishment during the Sept. 14 Olney City Council meeting.

Mr. Jacoba said smaller cities seldom have both Class A and Class B licensed water operators on staff. Those advanced credentials are more commonly found in larger municipal systems with bigger workforces. Mr. Jacoba holds a Class A license.

Surface-water licenses require operators to document experience, complete training and demonstrate knowledge of treatment processes and state requirements. Licensed operators help ensure that public water systems are run safely and in compliance with regulatory standards.

Mr. Messimer’s new license strengthens the City’s staffing as Olney operates its existing treatment system and plans a major water-treatment plant project.

Councilmembers congratulated Mr. Messimer after Mr. Jacoba announced the achievement.