LEWISTON – The city of Lewiston celebrated the work of its employees at its 20th annual employee recognition event recently.

City Administrator James A. Bennett kicked off the evening by surprising Lewiston Police Department Information Support Analyst Andrew Robitaille with the 2006 Employee of the Year Award.

Robitaille accepted the award and expressed his appreciation for the confidence Chief William Welch and Deputy Michael Bussiere have shown in him. Robitaille has been with the city since 2003.

Bennett also presented administrator awards in three categories. Denise Charest, public services inventory manager, received the 2006 Customer Service Award; Fire Inspector Paul Ouellette was the recipient of the 2006 Professional Award; Paul Tremblay, maintenance person at the Recreation and Parks Department, received the 2006 Technical Award; and Deputy Public Services Director Kevin Gagne received the 2006 Management Team Award.

Throughout the evening, Council President Renee Bernier and Bennett praised employees for their dedication, hard work and professionalism, with Bennett adding that the positive state and national recognition that the city has received over the last year speaks volumes as to their performance and work ethic.

Service award pins were also presented to employees who have worked for the city for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years, and presentations were also made to 2006 retirees. In addition, finance, fire, police, public services, public works and recreation presented special commendations recognizing the above and beyond contributions of respective departmental employees.

Two volunteer commendations were also made by Bernier to residents Nick Knowlton and Harold Hartley who have volunteered countless hours assisting the city of Lewiston’s staff on various projects and initiatives.

Deputy City Administrator Phil Nadeau served as Master of Ceremonies and the Lewiston police and fire honor guards posted and retreated the colors. Members of the Lewiston City Council and department heads also participated in a congratulatory receiving line. The event was coordinated by Human Resources Assistant Irene Dostie.