Georgetown County Public Services recognized three of its most outstanding employees today during a luncheon to honor staff. Sharon Moultrie was named Public Services Employee of the Year, Karan Cokley received the Professional Achievement Award, and Rodney Butler received the Customer Service Award.

Employee of the Year

The Public Services Employee of the Year award was created to recognize a team-oriented individual who embodies professionalism, customer focus and work quality. Sharon Moultrie, Operations Supervisor in the Public Works Division, has been with the county for more than 30 years and is consistently a standout employee. 

“She has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the Department of Public Services and county policies and procedures,” said Jacob Nesmith, Public Works and Construction Services Manager, who presented the awards.

Moultrie supervises more than a dozen employees who are responsible for maintaining county-owned roads and rights-of-way all across Georgetown County. The duties of this team include pothole repair, bush-hogging, motor grading, ditch maintenance and more. 

Moultrie has a great rapport with the employees, but still holds them accountable on a daily basis, Nesmith said. “She has a ‘get the job done’ attitude while advocating for employee camaraderie. When it’s time to celebrate an employee or show employee appreciation, she goes above and beyond.”

Professional Achievement Award

Karan Cokley, a motor grader operator, has come up the ranks with several promotions over the years. He is now classified as an “HEO III,” the highest level a heavy equipment operator can achieve in this agency. 

Cokley spends his days grading dirt and slag roads throughout the county. He has a Class A commercial driver’s license and operates other heavy equipment as needed.

“He puts a lot of effort into grading his roads and they are always graded with quality,” Nesmith said. “He is always willing to help out wherever needed, is a team player and is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done.”

Beyond that, Cokley always shows up with a smile and good attitude, making him a pleasure to work with. It’s a combination that made him a natural Choice for this year’s Professional Achievement Award.

Customer Service Award

The Customer Service Award is given annually to a Public Services Employee who goes above and beyond in the name of service and professionalism in dealing with county residents. Rodney Butler, an MS4/Watershed Specialist with Georgetown County Stormwater, was selected as this year’s winner.

Butler has been described by colleagues as a consummate professional and has become a “go-to person in his department for dealing with the public,” Nesmith said. “His friendly attitude and demeanor have kept more than one resident from making a bad choice during a stormwater crisis.” 

Butler is instrumental in the Stormwater Division’s obligations to education and public outreach.

“He is truly committed to improving the lives of everyone in Georgetown County,” Nesmith said.