Four Maricopa County employees shared $5,300 for ideas they proposed which will save the county more than $100,000. The awards are part of the county’s annual Rewarding Ideas Program, a program that began in 1984 and has saved the county more than $12 million.
Protective services officer Vincent Costaglio was the top winner, earning $2,500 for suggesting the county install occupancy sensors to control lighting in county restrooms. The restrooms are unoccupied for 75 percent of the day. Since the suggestion will save $131 a year at each restroom and there are more than 800 restrooms in county buildings, the proposal will save an estimated $87,508.
Dan Petty and Tom Daley, of facilities management, each received $1,250 for their idea to install wireless lighting sensors in county buildings that will result in an energy savings of $22,748.
Cheri Kay Dale proposed that air quality department distribute its rules online and save on printing costs. The idea will save the county $1,498. Dale will receive a $300 award.
