CENTRAL CITY — The most notable moment of this Tuesday’s Central City Council meeting came when staff recognized a behind-the-scenes employee whose work keeps the city running.

On April 7, Clem Hofman, an operator at the City’s water plant, was named Operator of the Year, marking the second year in a row Central City has received the honor.

Public Works Director Marc Johns, speaking during the recognition, said last year’s recipient recommended Hofman for the award. 

The former award recipient described Hofman as someone who has worked to maximize efficiency at the plant while also stepping in to repair equipment and keep operations moving.

The recognition highlighted the kind of work that rarely gets public attention but is essential to daily life in Central City. Maintaining the water system requires constant oversight, troubleshooting, and hands-on repairs, much of it done without fanfare.

The glass award was shaped like a large water droplet and was almost full of water. With his family in tow, Hofman accepted the award graciously. 

The meeting then moved quickly through agenda items, including approval of updated building codes, a resolution for on-call engineering services, and ongoing project updates.

Later in the meeting, staff reported that the City has applied for a $50,000 Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Fund grant through the Department of Local Affairs to support water system improvements. Award announcements are expected this month.

Council members also shared brief comments at the close of the meeting, noting progress on local projects, including repairs to the Hawley Mercantile building and ongoing improvements to the opera company’s historic properties.

The meeting adjourned at 6:21 p.m.

The next regular Central City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, 2026, and will be held in person at City Hall and online as available.