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City Council is honoring Suffolk’s police and public works employees for their work serving the community.

Council held two special presentations during its Wednesday, May 3 meeting to mark the proclamation of weeks May 14-20 as National Police Memorial Week, which coincides with Peace Officer Memorial Day on May 15, and May 21-27 as National Public Works Week.

On behalf of the Suffolk Police Department, Chief of Police Alfred Chandler accepted the proclamation “with great pride.” He said the department will be in in Washington D.C. as the late Suffolk officer Sgt. Joe Rivera is added to the wall of officers that lost their lives in duty. Rivera died May 31, 2021 after a battle with COVID-19.

“This week is an observance of those who lost their lives protecting and serving. As of today, there have been 33 officers in our nation, this year alone, who have lost their lives protecting others,” Chancellor said. “And there are hundreds and thousands of officers who continue to wear the badge, answering the call and doing the work and being the guardians of our communities.” 

Chandler said the City of Suffolk is especially blessed to have an amazing group of  talented, caring law enforcement professionals who protect the city.

“These men and women deserve celebration and honor and I stand before you today proudly saying from a grateful police department that we appreciate our city standing with us on this very special week,” he said.

Director of Public Works Robert Lewis was joined by his management staff and how public works “connect us physically through infrastructure and inspirationally through service to our communities.” 

“Public Works is the thread that connects us all, no matter where we live in the world, every public works professional strives to improve the quality of life of the community they serve leading to healthier and happier communities,” Lewis said.

“We ask that you all join us in celebrating the quiet work that these professionals do that makes our lives better – everyday.”