Deputy Director of Public Works Kevin Derossitt was honored Tuesday night as the 2025 recipient of the City of Owensboro’s Cap Gardner Employee of the Year Award.
The award, established in 2007, is named after former Mayor Cap Gardner, a World War II Navy veteran and dedicated public servant who led the city from 1954 to 1958. Each year, a committee representing local civic organizations selects one city employee whose service exemplifies leadership, reliability, and a commitment to Owensboro’s residents.
Mayor Tom Watson presented the award during the City Commission meeting and read from several nomination letters praising Derossitt’s decades of behind-the-scenes leadership.
“He embodies dedication, leadership, and commitment to the city and its residents,” Watson read. “He is the unsung hero utilized by everyone in the city. He answers every phone call with a ‘yes’ and makes sure the issue is taken care of as soon as possible.”
Derossitt was praised for his role in coordinating city services across departments and responding to urgent public needs — whether dealing with snowstorms, sinkholes, flooding, or infrastructure maintenance. One nominator said Derossitt’s leadership “inspires us all,” calling him a mentor who supports, encourages, and celebrates the success of others.
“This is someone who puts the safety and well-being of both his team and the community first,” Watson read. “His compassion, reliability, and commitment to others exemplify the spirit of the Cap Gardner Award.”
Derossitt, who has served the city for 26 years, was humble in his acceptance.
“I accept this on behalf of Public Works and all the departments within City Hall. OPD, Fire — without those people, I couldn’t do what I do,” he said. “I appreciate those people, and that’s where my feet are standing on today. They make me look good.”
Derossitt’s name will be added to the permanent memorial at Cap Gardner Park, located at 20th Street and J.R. Miller Boulevard.
