Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
The Water Environment Federation (WEF) will honor McAllen Public Utility (MPU) Vice Chairman Ernest Williams with its prestigious Public Official Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to water and wastewater infrastructure and his commitment to sustainable water management. Williams will receive the award during the WEF’s annual conference in New Orleans on October 7-9, 2024.
Williams has served on the MPU Board of Trustees since 2009 and has played a pivotal role in advancing the city’s water and wastewater services. Under his leadership, MPU has implemented several major infrastructure projects, including expanding the South Wastewater Treatment Plant, producing Type 1 reclaimed water at the North Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the construction of the South Water Recovery Plant Maintenance and Operations Building.
“Ernest’s dedication to improving our city’s water and wastewater systems is unparalleled,” said Mark Vega, P.E., general manager of McAllen Public Utility. “His leadership and vision have not only enhanced service delivery but have also helped protect our precious water resources through initiatives like reclaimed water use for irrigation and industrial applications. This award is a testament to his commitment to public service and environmental stewardship.”
Since 2018, Williams has overseen more than $167 million in infrastructure projects to improve service reliability, environmental protection, and water conservation. His efforts have positioned McAllen as a regional leader in innovative water management solutions that benefit residents and the Rio Grande Valley.
In response to the recognition, Williams expressed his gratitude: “It’s been an honor to serve the people of McAllen and work with such a dedicated team at MPU. Our goal has always been to provide the best possible service to our ratepayers while protecting the environment and conserving resources for future generations.”
The Water Environment Federation’s Public Official Award is given annually to public officials who have demonstrated leadership in promoting sustainable water and environmental policies. Williams’ long-standing dedication to MPU’s mission and community service made him an exemplary recipient of this national honor.
This year’s WEFTEC event, in partnership with Xylem and Fill it Forward, will encourage participants to reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastic by bringing refillable water bottles to the conference.
