From Pompano Beach to Americus: The Inspiring Journey of Mr. George Allen

Published 9:26 pm Thursday, January 23, 2025

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By City of Americus Urban Planner
He greets everyone with a steady kindness that instantly sets minds at ease. Mr. George Allen is the City of Americus’ Director of Public Works. He hails from Pompano Beach, Florida, where he began his public works journey as a meter reader in Tamarac—about 15 miles from Fort Lauderdale—fearlessly tackling duties most people avoid. Over time, his relentless dedication propelled him from the water and sewer department into the concrete and asphalt department, ultimately becoming the Public Works Superintendent in Miami Gardens. Beyond the office, he is also well-acquainted with the gridiron, having played quarterback and wide receiver during his days in Pop Warner and at the University of Central Florida (UCF). His passion for football later guided him into youth coaching, where he continued to share his love of the sport.
Today, Mr. Allen continues that same community-first spirit right here in Americus. A proud graduate of Barry University in Miami with a Bachelor’s in Public Administration, he holds memberships in the American Public Works Association, International Municipal Signal Association, and NAFA Fleet Management Association. Yet, as impressive as his credentials may be, those who know him best speak to his calm composure and genuine humility. “Clearly, Mr. Allen is not just about doing work,” one colleague observed. He openly references the significance of his faith life, and how it guides him in all his actions—an approach that resonates throughout his department.
Spending just one morning with Mr. Allen and his team reveals a buzz of optimism in the air. During a recent staff meeting, lively updates were shared on ongoing Public Works projects and strategic planning surrounding personnel policies, vehicle/equipment inspections, and upcoming initiatives. Vehicle auctions were discussed as a promising revenue generator for the near future. Attendees also learned that the Jackson Street pipeline installation is about 90% complete, efforts to straighten leaning signs in the historic district are underway, and street curb improvements on Lamar and Forsyth Streets are also in progress. In a move toward greater transparency, all city vehicles now proudly display updated lettering, ensuring citizens know exactly who is at work in their neighborhood.
None of this would be possible without the collaboration of Mr. Allen’s dedicated leadership team. Every Monday morning, he brings together the Streets & Grounds Superintendent (Keffery McCuller), who keeps roads clean and green spaces tidy; the Water & Sewer Superintendent (Lascelles Anderson), who ensures the city’s water supply and sewage systems run smoothly; the Grounds & Maintenance Supervisor (David Harbort), focused on landscaping and facility upkeep; the Garage Administrative Assistant (Karen Adams), managing communication and paperwork; the Garage Superintendent (Raymond Thomas), overseeing vehicle maintenance and repairs; the Administrative Assistant (Regina Nether), assisting Mr. Allen with daily operations; the Cemetery Clerk (Ronelle Willadsen), responsible for preserving and managing the final resting places of the community; and theFacilities Manager (Farrah Rutherford), charged with keeping city buildings functional and welcoming. Each department plays a vital role, from beautifying streets and maintaining water services to preserving cemeteries and ensuring facilities remain in top shape. In a remarkable twist of fate, Mr. Allen is once again working alongside Mr. Anderson after a 20-year gap—Mr. Anderson credits Mr. Allen with teaching him much of what he knows today about public works.
For Mr. Allen, community engagement is key. He wants Americus residents to know that Public Works is always open to partnering with local organizations for cleanup and beautification initiatives. The department is also on the lookout for new talent—diesel mechanics, corrections deputies, and heavy equipment operators—so spreading the word to neighbors and friends is highly encouraged. In the meantime, Public Works urges everyone to bag their fall leaves before placing them on the street, as code enforcement infractions may lead to fines. Patience is also appreciated as multiple projects move forward simultaneously, each one enhancing the allure and functionality of the city.
Those with ideas, questions, or simply a desire to meet the man leading these efforts are welcome to reach out. Mr. Allen’s door is open at 1404 Forsyth Street, Americus, GA 31709. He can be contacted by phone at 229-591-7684 or by email at gallen@americusga.gov. When it comes to caring for Americus—its people, streets, and future—George Allen stands ready to serve, one project at a time.