The Power Performer for July 2025 is Nick Balwin. I happened to be attending a meeting with Public Works and, as I walked through the maintenance yard, I was greeted by a hearty hello and then a brief conversation about how much this employee enjoyed working for the Town of Florence, thanking us for the opportunity.

I turned to Director Andy Smith and supervising mechanic Larry Garcia to ask about this employee, and they both said almost uniformly, “Nick.” In further conversation, they both exclaimed how much Nick has improved the work section, making it a place of fun, camaraderie, and mission completion. Larry told me the synergy running through his department has increased and the relationships among his team members are at an all-time high, saying this is what Nick brings to our daily operations.

My intrigue heightened, “Tell me about his work.” It was at this time I learned Nick was an integral part of clearing out surplus vehicles for auction, a main contention from the Police Department as they needed more room and had been asking for help with disposition. Nick got it done.

That same sunny personality and customer service have contributed to the maintenance team receiving several mentions of commendation from our section heads. This being led by Nick with only five months in! No denying Nick is my choice for July Power Performer.