Merged departments focus on core products, services | News

Pinellas County’s new Department of Environment and Infrastructure (DEI) is home to some familiar names to Pinellas County residents. The old Utilities Department, Public Works and parts of Environmental Management now reside under the DEI umbrella as a cohesive group providing critical programs and services.

DEI has nine program areas including water, sewer, surface water management, vegetation and mosquito control, streets and bridges, transportation management, landfill and site operations, Waste-to-Energy and waste reduction (recycling). Most of these programs impact the daily quality of life of every Pinellas County citizen.

“From the time we wake up in the morning until we get to work, DEI touches our lives in many ways—water for the shower that’s taken for granted, traffic signals that work, safe bridges and roads, and efficient disposal of the trash picked up from our curbs," says Executive Director David Scott. "It’s important that our residents be aware that the clean water we provide, the management of mosquitoes to prevent disease and many other services are just as important to our quality of life as police and fire protection."

Even with reduced staffing in recent years, the increased collaboration of operating units within DEI has helped overcome some of the challenges. Employee teams are working to improve the internal efficiency and strength of the organization and to make recommendations for improved work flow and responsiveness to citizens.

DEI employees often receive positive feedback about the service level provided and their responsiveness. This is consistent with a recent national poll showing a high level of trust in local government and DEI will continue to strive to earn that level of trust.