The Department of Public Works is responsible for maintaining, evaluating and repairing the Village's infrastructure including roads, building and grounds, parks, and water and storm sewer systems. The DPW is on call 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, including holidays, to respond to snow and ice emergencies, water system failures, storm damage, and any other emergency related to public works that may arise. The DPW provides fall and spring leaf collection and also controls the water levels of Lake Orion.
The DPW also has the task of operating and maintaining Eastlawn and Evergreen cemeteries. This includes everyday maintenance such as mowing, trimming and snow plowing and performing internments on a regular basis.
DPW maintains the Village's water distribution system, including repairing water main breaks, overseeing capital improvements to the physical system, and testing for water quality. The department issues an annual Water Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) providing valuable information to the public on the quality of the drinking water.
DPW does not maintain the Village's sanitary sewer system. This work is contracted to the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner's Office. WRC can be reached for general questions at (248) 858-0958. If you have an emergency relating to your sanitary sewer, please call (248) 624-6366.
The village provides trash collection services through contract with Priority Waste.
The Department of Public Works provides leaf collection services in the Spring and Fall. The Village's Spring leaf pick up and Priority Waste's yard waste collection begins the first week of April.
Meet Your Public Works Staff
Wes Sanchez, Director
Wes Sanchez joined the village team in December 2014. Wes came to us with a wide variety of knowledge and experience in many areas. Wes is experienced in equipment operating, equipment repair, and landscaping. Wes holds an S-3 drinking water license from the State of Michigan.
Chris Carpenter, Foreman
Chris Carpenter came to work for the village in June 2015. Chris brings a wealth of knowledge of grounds and building maintenance to the village, having previously worked for Rochester Schools for 15 years. Chris also has many other helpful skills including his landscaping experience, building knowledge, and snow removal experience. He holds an S-4 drinking water license from the State of Michigan. Chris was promoted from laborer to foreman in January 2019.
Sam Hicks, Laborer
Sam Hicks joined our ranks in March 2015. Sam has an extensive laborer background, as he came to us from the Laborers Union. Sam has many skill sets that are very beneficial to the village and make him a great asset to the Public Works Department. In addition, we truly value the distinct way he pays attention to detail.
Jose Licea started with the Village as a seasonal laborer in June of 2020. In the Summer of 2021 a full time position opened up and Jose was hired full time. Jose brings a wide range of skills to the Village including snow plowing, maintenance, landscaping and the ability to repair just about anything. Jose is very sociable and brightens up the day of anyone he comes in contact with.
Joel Warren was hired to the Village in July of 2022. Joel has a background in safety and maintenance. Joel and his family are local to Orion Township and very active in the community. Joel brings a wide range of skills with him and makes sure every job he does is to the highest standards.
Aleks Wilson is the newest member to the DPW team. Aleks was hired full time to the DPW in March of 2023. Aleks is eager to learn everything he can about Public Works. He is an extremely hard worker and a fast learner, jumping in on every task, and never afraid to do the work.