CLARKSVILLE, IN (July 31, 2023) – The Town of Clarksville is known for having one of the best Public Works Departments in Southern Indiana. They keep our streets paved, our trash emptied, and our roads clear of snow among other duties. The days can be hard for the Public Works crews, but fortunately they have a special friend to pick them up after a hard day’s work.
Meet Felix, the most purrrfect employee at Clarksville Public Works. Public Works Business Manager Stacy Loyall says the department had a large orange cat named Garfield at their previous location, but he was very old and passed away when the department moved to it’s new location on Leuthart Drive. Missing their feline friend, two employees decided to visit the JB Ogle Animal Shelter to rescue a new friend. That’s when they met Felix.
“He was just so loving and friendly to the employees who visited the shelter,” said Loyall. “You could say it was more like Felix picked them.”
Felix is the department’s cat and everyone working at the facility loves having him around. As a matter of fact, all the food and supplies needed to take care of Felix are donated by staff. They even chip in to cover Felix’s veterinarian bills when needed.
“Everyone buys him extra treats from time to time, and some guys even come in on the weekends just to check on Felix and make sure he gets the love and attention he deserves,” said Loyall. “He is our baby.”
Loyall says Felix is also the resident welcoming committee, greeting all the visitors who stop by the office. He is also the first one to say hello when staff arrive for work.
“As soon as you come in the door you will see Felix poke his head out of an office or from around the corner to see who is coming in, and offering a welcoming meow,” said Loyall.
Loyall says the best part about having Felix on the team is the relief and happiness he provides to staff members.
“He’s our emotional support cat. You could be so mad about something that happened during the work day, then he comes to love on you and you instantly feel better.”
When asked why all the staff members are willing to work together to take care of Felix, Loyall says they are all animal lovers at heart.
“Its the same thing when our guys are out working on the street. If they ever see an animal in need of assistance, they always go out of their way to make sure to help in any way they can. We are all big animal lovers here at Public Works.”
Fortunately for the staff at Public Works, Felix is always there and willing to accept that love and give it right back.
