MADISON – For the 22nd year, deserving city workers were honored with Employee of the Year awards.

Rotary Club of Madison, in cooperation with the City of Madison, sponsors this recognition.

Debbie Overcash, Rotary’s chair for Employee of the Year, announced the winners and their career milestones at City Council’s May 23 meeting. Employees’ supervisors submitted nominations.

* Firefighter of the Year, Cody White – White first worked as full-time paramedic with HEMSI for seven years. He joined Madison’s fire squad in February 2018.

Currently, he serves as Firefighter/Medic on A-shift, Truck Company #1. His part-time work includes HEMSI Medic and volunteer firefighter with Owens Crossroads Fire Department.

A primary EMS trainer, White supervised paramedics’ orientation. He’s a key player for Community Risk Reduction, ‘go-to’ person for Virtual Reality Trailer and lead operator of Virtual Reality Simulation.

White is involved heavily in Special Operations Division. He’s a pilot for Public Safety Unmanned Aircraft System and leads Remote Viewing. He also works as a SWAT Medic.

“What impresses me most about Cody is his genuine empathy for our citizens. He (can) wholly connect with elementary school students and compassionately care for special needs and elderly EMS patients,” Fire Chief David Bailey said.

White, wife Chyanne and their children, Lilly and Cole, live in Madison County.

* Police Officer of the Year, Davin Hill — Hill has exhibited exemplary skill in initial investigation, decision making and follow-up. An excellent leader, he consistently leads in self-initiated contacts and activity.

Hill has recovered 37 grams of crystal methamphetamine, along with Fentanyl, Psilocybin Mushrooms, heroin and marijuana.

He teaches and coaches junior officers. A natural leader, Hill leads by example and sets the standard.

In community policing, he has nurtured relationships with employees and managers of businesses in his patrol zone. In field training, Hill has accomplished outstanding results. His DUI reports were filed as proofs of compliance for accreditation.

He functions as Senior Court Security Officer and Bailiff for City Council. Hill will receive certification as C.I.T. Officer to assist with citizens in mental crisis.

“Officer Hill sets the example by showing that every day a dedicated officer can make a difference in the safety and lives of our citizenry,” Sergeant Stephen Reaves stated.

* Employee of the Year, Monique Melton, Public Works Department (a tie) — Currently, she serves as Administrative Assistant to Public Works Director.

As of August, Melton will have worked 30 years for the city. “The knowledge in a vast area of different topics and her dedication to Public Works and to the city” are Monique’s top qualities, Department Manager Kent Smith said.

“Monique is known throughout City Hall for her willingness to help any resident or other department solve issues,” City Administrator Steve Smith said. “Her honesty and integrity through five Public Works directors have been foundational for a department critical to the city’s success.”

Recently, Melton reported during a meeting with recycling representatives. “She was factual, on point and clearly defined expectations,” Smith said.

* Employee of the Year, Deputy Chief Brandy Williams, Madison Fire and Rescue Department (a tie) – Williams started with the city in 1998, and she has been Deputy Fire Chief since 2016.

During an extended opening in April 2021, Williams advanced as Acting Fire Chief. In addition to standard department needs, Williams managed during the height of COVID-19.

Bailey describes Williams as instrumental to the department’s progress. “Deputy Chief Williams’ diligent work over many projects allows us to successfully meet many challenges,” Bailey said.

She has managed the hiring process, developed specifications for new fire engines and other apparatus and initiated a workbook program for third-graders in Madison’s elementary schools.

Currently, Williams serves as President of North Alabama Fire Chiefs Association and is the first female Commissioner on Alabama Firefighters’ Personnel Standards and Education Commission.

“Brandy . . . managed day-to-day management requirements while also focusing on employee safety throughout COVID-19,” Finley said.

Award winners receive a plaque, inclusion on City Hall’s perpetual plaque, four tickets to Rotary Club’s Dead Parrots Society fundraiser and a cash gift from Rotary.