In recent years, Utilities Director Danny Webb helped guide the Town of Hillsville’s water system to numerous statewide awards.

After 30 years on the job, Webb is retiring August 1. He is confident his successor, Darrick Mayes, can continue the department’s proud tradition — Hillsville’s water department is on a streak of seven straight Water Fluoridation Quality Awards and three straight Virginia Department of Health Gold Awards.

“Darrick’s been with us for 10 years and has done great in those 10 years,” Webb said. “I have every confidence in him and I know Larry and the Town Council does as well.”

Mayes has served as Water Plant Supervisor during much of Hillsville’s string of success, and with Webb’s impending retirement, Town officials felt he was ready to assume the Utility Director position.

Mayes said he learned much while working for Webb, and fully intends to use those lessons to the fullest as he ascends to his new post.

“I’d like to express how great it’s been working with Danny and how great it’s been, just his tutelage and bringing me up and helping me through the years” Mayes said. “It’s been great working with him. I still can learn a lot from him.”

Mayes said he’s anxious to begin work in his new capacity.

“I’m definitely excited. I’m looking forward to it,” Mayes said. “It’s a great opportunity from the town.”

With Mayes moving into the Utilities Director position, Richard Frazier will assume the Water Plant Supervisor’s job.

“We’ve promoted from within, which I’m really glad to see the Town do,” Webb said. “I think it’s going to work out really well for the town. We’re really excited about what’s happening. Richard is excited about his step forward and Darrick is, too. I do plan to work some part-time for the town after I retire. It’s a change that’s working out for everybody involved.”

Hillsville Town Manager said the job Webb did for Hillsville is commendable, and he believes Hillsville can maintain the high level of achievement under Mayes’ watch.

“The Town is extremely fortunate and blessed with having Danny Webb in the water and sewer departments,” South said. “We’ve had an award-winning water department for several years. The quality and safety of our water is top-notch. We’re glad Darrick is employed with us and has the qualifications to step in and continue Danny’s good work.”

Webb said he considers himself one of Hillsville’s biggest fans and couldn’t say enough about being able to do what he did for the past three decades.

“I’m excited about my retirement and I’m really appreciative of the 30 years I’ve had with the town,” he said. “It’s been great and I’ve enjoyed it. I’m thankful for my career here.”