Quick Response, Outstanding Service: Tree Crew Earns Resident Praise

Posted On: November 18, 2025

When a dead tree threatened their canal-side property, New Smyrna Beach residents Tiffany and Kevin Dirlam reached out to Volusia County Public Works – and what happened next showcases the exemplary customer service our employees deliver every day.

"My husband and I wanted to send a heartfelt thank you to you and your team for such an amazing job in removing the dead tree in the canal behind our home," the Dirlams wrote to Public Works Director Ben Bartlett. "The same day of sending my email, we received a phone call and on-site visits. A quick and efficient action plan was made to solve the problem within three days."

The couple's appreciation didn't stop there. They praised the team's professionalism and skill in accessing the tree and debris from what they described as "a rather tough location."

"We are beyond grateful for everyone who stepped in to make this happen in such a short time," they wrote.

The outstanding work was performed by Volusia County's Tree Crew: Tree Specialist Supervisor Robert Peterson, Senior Tree Specialist Lenvail Revels, and Tree Specialists Robert Hughes and Thomas Marshall.