By Josh Troy
Clarksdale Advocate
Street sweeper Lane Roberts’ work ethic and leadership skills earned him the Clarksdale Public Works Employee of the Month for February. Roberts was presented with a certificate during Monday’s Board of Mayor and Commissioners meeting. Roberts was a part-time and full-time grass cutter for the Public Works Department and became a street sweeper. He worked for the City of Clarksdale for the first time in 2019.
Roberts thanked Assistant Director of Public Works Craig Amerson, whom he calls “Coach,” for the opportunity. “I want to thank Coach for giving me the opportunity to be better at what I’m doing,” Roberts said. “I’m young, so I want to be the face of the young that’s coming up. I want to make a career out of public works and give the kids another option.”
Roberts thanked the Rev. James Jackson Sr. for being a role model. “He gave me an opportunity to come to the (Young Life) gym and think of a different way,” Roberts. Roberts said he has lived across the street from the Young Life gym on Anderson Boulevard. He added that he was glad to see Jackson recognized as a Modern Day Champion for Black History Month. Roberts acknowledged city officials.
“I appreciate you, and I’m here to make Clarksdale great,” he said. “We’re going to make it great again, and I will continue to make it great.” Mayor Chuck Espy commended Roberts for his work. “We’re very proud of you,” Espy said. “Congratulations. Good job.”
Director of Personnel Tarra Slack announced Roberts was the Public Works Employee of the Month for “outstanding work ethic and leadership skills.” “It is my great pleasure to always have an opportunity to pat a team member on the back for something that he or she has done to improve the City of Clarksdale,” Slack said. “Mr. Roberts has shown that he can step up to the plate during adversity and long work hours. Mr. Lane has a knack for inspiring others on the job site when others lack inspiration. So we applaud you, Mr. Lane Roberts.”
Cutline: Public Works Employee of the Month Lane Roberts, left, is presented the award during Monday’s Board of Mayor and Commissioners meeting. Roberts is with Assistant Director of Public Works Craig Amerson.
