Living Water Award 2025 Nominee

Theo Deleon and Jason Sapp

Operations Manager and Utility Worker II, Peoples Water Service Company

Theo, an Operations Manager, and Jason, a Utility Worker II, both with Peoples Water Service Company, are nominated for their exceptional efforts during a historic snow and freeze event in Pensacola, Florida, where accumulation was almost 9 inches and Interstate 10 was closed. Despite the city being paralyzed and widespread issues with uninsulated pipes, they ensured continuous water service, working tirelessly, running wells constantly and manually operating the SCADA system when controls were lost due to frozen lines. Their actions prevented major mechanical failures and ensured that water consumption, which doubled the normal average as customers ran their water to avoid freezing water lines, was met. Their dedication maintained water pressure and treatment processes, ensuring the community had access to water during the crisis.