(KNSI) – St. Cloud has been recognized for the fifth time with the Utility of the Future Today award.

According to officials, the honor goes to communities that go above and beyond in innovative ways by thinking outside the box regarding wastewater and stormwater treatment.

This year, St. Cloud was recognized for its community engagement and partnerships. City officials say it’s essential to share lessons learned and to let the public know what they are doing, why they are doing it, what you’re paying for when you get your utility bill and what services the city is providing.

Public Services Director Tracy Hodel says St. Cloud is one of 34 facilities in the nation recognized this year. “And I think that’s pretty impressive when you think that there are over 16,000 wastewater treatment facilities in the nation. So that is something that our community should be very proud of. And very, very proud of our staff that makes that happen day in and day out.”

St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis gave all the credit to Hodel and her staff. “All the innovation comes from the human resources here, and you got a really smart, innovative, creative, dedicated team that work here for the city. And they keep impressing day to day. So, the award is a recognition to that team.”

This is the fifth time the city has been recognized with the award in six years.

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