Staff Spotlight: Sarah Waterman, Sustainability Engineer

This month’s Staff Spotlight highlights the work of Sarah Waterman, Sustainability Engineer for the Town of Penfield.

Prior to moving into the Sustainability Engineer role, Sarah served as the Town Junior Engineer from 2016 to 2022.

Sarah began serving in her current role after the Penfield Town Board created the position in 2022. She handles a wide range of responsibilities such as coordinating the Town’s CCA (electricity supply) program, grant writing, implementation of sustainability initiatives, community outreach, and serving as staff liaison to the Energy and Environmental Conservation Committee (EECC) and the Transportation Committee. Her work also includes the development of the Town of Penfield Sustainability Code which will outline rules and regulations for car charging stations, energy generation, and battery storage.

Most recently, Sarah was instrumental in the Town achieving Clean Energy Community designation by completing steps that resulted in the receipt of three $5,000 grants. This grant funding has been used to add a second car charging station at the Town Hall as well as plant 24 new trees on the north end of the Shadow Pines property.

“Over the years, the Town of Penfield has established itself as a leader in sustainable programs and initiatives,” said Town Supervisor Debbie Drawe. “Creating the Sustainability Engineer position is one of the most recent examples of this commitment, and we are proud to have Sarah in this important role.”

The Town of Penfield and its residents have benefited greatly from the new Sustainability Engineer position,” added Town Engineer Mark Valentine, PE. “Since this position was created, a first of its kind in Monroe County, Sarah has been integral to the implementation and creation of various important programs and projects.”

Great work, Sarah, and thanks for taking on this position!