Rural Water Association Honors Two BDM Locals

     The South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems (SDARWS) recently awarded two local employees with some prestigious state awards. Both Darin Roehr and Shannon Wegleitner of BDM in Britton were honored. 
    Darin Roehr was the distinguished recipient of the 2023 Rural Water Operations Specialist of the Year Award. According to SDARWS’s press release about the award, Roehr’s outstanding 28-year tenure as an Operations Specialist with BDM has been characterized by exceptional service, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.
     Roehr’s deep institutional knowledge, acquired during the system’s installation, has been a cornerstone in resolving operational issues. Serving as the lead for the BDM Operation Specialists, his commitment extends beyond regular hours, making him the first point of contact for SCADA alarms and ensuring the integrity of the system at any hour.
     Roehr’s instrumental role in the design of BDM’s new water treatment plant, scheduled to commence in 2024, showcases his expertise, noted the SDARWS. His field experience and comprehensive understanding of rural water systems have provided critical insights into the plant’s design and functionality.
     The award winner’s troubleshooting skills, quick resolution of issues, and ability to minimize downtime and expenses have significantly elevated customer satisfaction for BDM Rural Water System. His community spirit shines through his volunteer work with the North Marshall Volunteer Fire Department, where he has served in various capacities, including fire chief and trainer.
     SDARWS also announced Shannon Wegleitner as the recipient of the Rural Water Office Person of the Year Award for 2023. With an exemplary 16-year tenure at BDM, Wegleitner has been an indispensable asset, particularly in the realm of customer service.
     This stellar office person handles a diverse array of responsibilities, from billing inquiries to managing new hookups, all executed with unparalleled efficiency. Her recent accomplishment in spearheading the transformation of the billing system is particularly commendable, according to the SDARWS. 
    Through extensive research and meticulous preparation, Wegleitner successfully transitioned BDM to a new program, complete with an online payment portal—a long-standing request from members. 
     Wegleitner’s dedication and skillful execution in this complex task, ensuring a seamless transition without any customer impact, exemplify her extraordinary commitment to her role. The Rural Water Office Person of the Year Award is a testament to her exceptional contributions, leadership, and impact on the water and wastewater industry.