Fontana Native Goes with the Flow to Serve his Community

Fontana, Calif. – Have you ever wondered what happens to the wastewater after flushing the toilet or pulling the drain plug? Well, that’s where Pump Technician Ben Parra comes in. This Public Works employee is responsible for managing all city wastewater pump stations and ensuring that sewage is delivered to treatment plants for proper disposal.

Ben Parra began working with the City of Fontana 31 years ago as a seasonal worker in the Public Works Department. Through the years, he has worked in every aspect of the department. As the Pump Technician, Ben is proud of his role in keeping the wastewater system flowing. His job provides him an underground perspective of the city that most never get to experience. From pipes, tubes and valves, if it’s involved in the flow of wastewater – he’s seen it all and enjoys troubleshooting problems that may arise at the pump stations.

His “typical” day is far from typical. Ben may be building things from scratch that the crews need or troubleshooting problems at the pump stations. Outside of normal work hours, Ben has remained on standby for the past 25 years, ready to respond to incidents such as sewer stoppage, boarding up vacant buildings or assisting in road closures for the Fontana Police Department.

“I stayed here because of all the friends, who are like family to me, that I have met in the years of working here. I enjoy all that I do for the proud City of Fontana in which I reside happily.” Ben’s greatest work accomplishment is helping his fellow coworkers in succeeding in their journey to success within the City of Fontana.

In his free time, Ben makes his own Beer and Whiskey. He can also be found building street rods, going to the desert with his military truck collection and spending time with his family. Ben “works hard to be a good friend, coworker, husband and father,” states a fellow coworker. From working on a coworker’s car to assisting the Management Services Department in decorating the office for holidays, Ben will always stop to help someone in need.

Ben also enjoys giving back to his community. For the past two years, he has built floats for Fontana’s Christmas parades. “I do it to see everyone happy,” says Ben. He enjoys bringing a smile to the children’s faces.

Ben has been selected as the City of Fontana Employee Spotlight for the month of December based on nominations from his peers. “He is an inspiration to all of us and always keeps us laughing and is a good example for all of us to follow,” raves a coworker.

For more information about sewer maintenance visit www.fontana.org or to report a problem during regular business hours Monday through Thursday, from 6:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. please call the Public Works Department at (909) 350-6760. Outside of regular business hours, please call the Fontana Police Department at (909) 350-7700.