It is easy to overlook what happens in the garages and bays around the Town of Clayton. But the work being done there affected nearly every service residents rely on. From behind-the-scenes maintenance to critical safety checks, this quiet corner keeps everything from patrol cars to backhoes dependable, safe, and ready to serve. 

National Public Works Week takes place from May 18 to 24. It offers a chance to recognize the people who work hard behind the scenes to keep communities running smoothly. One great example is the Fleet Division, a small but mighty team dedicated to keeping vehicles and equipment reliable and ready for action. 

With just two full-time mechanics and one superintendent, the Fleet Division maintains more than 460 pieces of the Town’s equipment. That includes everything from police cars and fire trucks to lawnmowers, chainsaws, and Public Works trucks. 

“If it has an engine or it has wheels, we fix it,” said Robert Kleisner, an Equipment Service Mechanic who joined the team six months ago. “Anything you see on the side of the street with a Town of Clayton sticker has likely come through our garage.” 

Every day, Kleisner and his colleagues provide preventative maintenance and repair services that keep the Town’s essential services moving without delay. They handle routine oil changes and tire repairs but also take on more complex work like suspension and steering replacements, especially on heavy equipment. The goal is always the same: keep vehicles in top condition and get them back on the road as quickly as possible. 

“Preventative maintenance is incredibly important. A lot of our vehicles are used every single day,” explained Kleisner. “If something goes down, it slows down an entire crew. We work to get vehicles back on the road promptly and make sure the repairs are done right the first time.” 

Some of the most specialized vehicles the Fleet Division works on belong to the Clayton Police Department and Clayton Fire Department. These vehicles require unique parts, specialized knowledge, and attention to safety features like cages, sirens, and lights. 

“For me, working on police and fire vehicles is one of the most rewarding parts of the job,” said Kleisner. “I live in Clayton, so I see those vehicles out on the road. It is like the fruit of your labor. You know your work is helping keep first responders safe and ready to protect the community.” 

The Fleet Division’s role becomes even more imperative during emergencies. When Streets and Grounds crews are out in winter storms salting roads or clearing debris, the Fleet Division stays on standby through the night in case something needs to be repaired. 

“We are ready to work on anything,” said Kleisner. “If someone is out there doing their job, we are here to make sure they have what they need to do it.” 

What may come as a surprise is the sheer scale of what the Fleet Division supports. More than 400 assets are maintained by just three people. It’s a testament to the teamwork, skill, and respect shared within the department. 

“Collaboration is everything here,” said Kleisner said. “One coworker has deep experience with heavy equipment, and I bring knowledge of bikes, vehicles, and trucks. We’re always learning from each other and backing each other up. That’s how we keep everything running.” 

Learn more about the Fleet Division and the Public Works Department, including their services and projects, by visiting townofclaytonnc.org/PublicWorks.