Ask Jenks: Barry Parsons with Public Works

Welcome to Ask Jenks! This week, we're sitting down with Barry Parsons, the Director of Public Works for the City of Jenks. Barry has been with the city for almost three years, coming from Kansas where he served as a city administrator. Before that, he had a distinguished career in the Air Force, serving over 20 years, mostly in public works and engineering roles, retiring as a first sergeant. We appreciate his service and are glad to have him here in Jenks.

Preparing for Winter Weather

With winter in full swing, many residents have questions about how the city handles snow and ice. Barry explained that Public Works is always monitoring the weather closely. They don't want to be caught off guard, but they also don't want to overreact to forecasts that might be inaccurate.

When winter weather is expected, the Public Works department has a plan. They operate on two 12-hour shifts, covering 24 hours a day. The day before any expected precipitation, all vehicles and plows are prepped and loaded with sand. Once a shift starts, the crews are ready to hit the ground running.

Key Takeaways for Winter Preparedness:

• Monitoring: Constant weather monitoring to anticipate needs.

• Preparation: Vehicles and plows are loaded with sand the day before potential weather events.

• Shifts: 12-hour shifts ensure 24/7 coverage during winter weather.

• Prioritization: Crews focus on main arterial streets and routes near schools first.

• Public Information: The city's snow and ice policy, including color-coded priority routes, is available on the city's website (jinx.com).

It's important to note that Public Works does not clear residential streets; their focus is on the main roadways to keep essential travel open.

The Wide Reach of Public Works

Many people might not realize the sheer scope of what Jenks Public Works handles. It's not just about snow removal. This department is responsible for vehicle maintenance, mowing, water lines, sewer lines, and so much more that keeps the city running smoothly. They truly make life comfortable and safe for residents.

Handling Water Main Breaks

Winter weather can unfortunately lead to water main breaks. When these happen, Public Works crews are out in the cold, often in ditches, to make repairs. Barry explained that the number of homes affected by a water break depends on the existing valving system. Sometimes, they can isolate a break to just a few houses, but other times, they need to shut off water to an entire neighborhood to make the repair.

To address this, the city is implementing a three-to-five-year program to replace older valves and exercise existing ones. The goal is to reduce the number of homes impacted by water breaks, ideally affecting only a small number of houses at a time. This program is supported by city leadership and has led to a dedicated crew focusing on valve maintenance.

Collaboration and First Responders

Public Works works very closely with the Jenks Police and Fire departments. During winter weather events, police officers often act as the "eyes and ears" on the road, reporting slippery conditions or accidents. This constant communication is vital for Public Works to respond effectively.

There's also a growing recognition that Public Works staff are, in fact, First Responders. While police and fire are the immediate response for emergencies, Public Works is crucial for clearing roads after events, like removing large tree limbs that might block access. This shift in perspective acknowledges the critical role Public Works plays in public safety and city functionality.

This improved collaboration and recognition is a culture shift happening across many cities, including Jenks. The support from city leadership, including the Mayor and City Council, is instrumental in this. It fosters a strong team environment where departments work well together, especially during emergencies.

Making Jenks Beautiful

Beyond the essential services, Public Works also plays a significant role in the aesthetic of Jenks. Barry mentioned that a key mission is to make Jenks a place that feels transformed, a place of beauty. This includes landscaping and the upkeep of buildings, contributing to the overall impression residents and visitors have when they enter the city.

Barry concluded by thanking the city leadership, council, and mayor for their unwavering support of the Public Works department. He also expressed his appreciation for his team, noting their respect and appreciation for the city's leadership. Citizens are encouraged to thank the Public Works crews for their hard work.

If you have questions for future Ask Jenks episodes, you can submit them through the questionnaire on jinx.com or by calling or emailing the city.