The Board of Public Works unanimously appointed Jimmy Carney as Wastewater Treatment Plant Assistant/Shift Operator during their March meeting. Jimmy will assume his position effective immediately.

Carney has been employed with the City of Hornell’s Department of Public Works since May 2002, and began working at the Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) in February 2022. He passed the State 1A exam on January 30th and, on February 17th, he placed in the top three for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee Civil Service exam, fulfilling all requirements for certification and the position.

Chief Operator Richard Dunning II outlined the rigorous requirements for employment within a WPCP, explaining, “The State of New York requires applicants to work for at least one year in a plant with comparable complexity to the facility in which they desire to work.” Dunning noted Hornell’s WPCP is a technically complex facility, with recent upgrades adding to its complexity. Dunning also highlighted the comprehensive operator certification process, stating, “A candidate must complete at least 1 year in operations, take classes at SUNY Morrisville instructing how plants operate, and pass the testing required. The test includes questions on all types of sewage treatment plant processes and equipment, not just the processes we use in Hornell, but every treatment technology presently in use.”



Mayor John Buckley was enthusiastic for the appointment, stating, “I am really excited for Jimmy to transition to his new role. He has been a great employee for the City of Hornell, and we are fortunate to have him at the WPCP. The operators at the WPCP provide a vital service to residents. This involves working holidays, evenings, and weekends to ensure the plant operates within parameters. We appreciate Jimmy for accepting these responsibilities, and the dedication of all our plant operators.”