.jpg)
The city of Ely is turning to the public for help in recognizing deserving citizens.
For the first time in several years, Ely will recognize a “Volunteer of the Year” and nominations are being sought this month.
Mayor Heidi Omerza outlined the process at Tuesday’s regular council meeting.
“We are soliciting nominations for 2024,” said Omerza. “People may submit the name of the individual they are proposing along with background information on the individual to the city clerk’s office.”
All nominations must be submitted by May 28, and all nominees must be city residents.
A winner or winners will be selected after the deadline and recognized at a later date. Omerza convened an ad hoc committee to look at reviving an award that once was presented annually.
It appears that 2016 may have been the last time the city honored residents with the award - naming Seraphine Rolando, Tom Omerza and Ed Marsolek that year.
From at least the 2000s through 2016, the city often recognized one or more notable volunteers with the honor.
It usually involved presentation of a plaque and a ceremony at the start of a council meeting, where city officials would thank the volunteers for their service to community groups, charities or causes.
Omerza said she had been approached by a few residents about reviving the award.
