Pasco to recognize two policemen and a public works executive

Together, Jess Greenough, Ruben Marquez and Dave Yates have devoted more than 70 years to the city of Pasco.

As 2015 winds down, the city invites the public to attend a pair of celebration receptions honoring the accomplishments of the three men, who are all retiring.

Greenough, field divisions manager, is retiring following 20 years with the city. In his two decades in Pasco, he has held numerous positions within the public works department.

“Jess has been a valued part of Public Works making sure the things we take for granted, good streets and running water, for example, are there 24 hours a day,” said his boss, Public Works Director Ahmad Qayoumi.

His retirement party is scheduled from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 30 in the public works shops, 1025 S. Grey St.

Police Sgt. Ruben Marquez and Officer Dave Yates have served the city since 1990. As supervisors note, the city had a population of slightly more than 20,000 and one of Washington’s highest crime rates.

Twenty-five years later, Pasco has almost 70,000 residents, and its crime rate has dropped by more than 80 percent. Marquez was named Officer of the Year in 1996 and Yates earned the honor in 2012.

“These ‘Officer of the Year’ winners exemplify the best of law enforcement by their working with our Pasco community that has dramatically decreased the crime rate over the last 25 years,” said Police Chief Bob Metzger.

A reception is from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 31 at the police training facility at the corner of First Avenue and Clark Street.

This story was originally published December 29, 2015 at 7:58 PM with the headline "Pasco to recognize two policemen and a public works executive."