National award recognizes managers of small utilities serving fewer than 2,500 meters who have a small staff and must assume multiple roles

COLUMBUS, OH: Mike DeFinis, borough manager for the Borough of Hatfield, is a 2020 recipient of the American Public Power Association’s (APPA) Larry Hobart Seven Hats Award. DeFinis was presented with the award during the APPA’s Virtual Summit & Business Meeting on June 9.

DeFinis is the 2019 recipient of the American Municipal Power (AMP) Seven Hats Award, which recognizes utility managers who serve communities of less than 2,500 meters, and whose management duties extend well beyond the scope of a manager in a larger system. DeFinis has served the Borough of Hatfield, a small community in Montgomery County, Pa, for nearly 25 years. He has been the borough manager since April 2009, and previously served on the Borough Council for 14 years.

“Mike DeFinis exemplifies what this prestigious award signifies – a strong work ethic, dedication to community and public power, and passionate leadership,” said AMP President and CEO Jolene Thompson. “Mike is very deserving of this honor and we are pleased to see him recognized on the national level.”

DeFinis has been instrumental in the planning and design process of Hatfield’s new Borough Municipal Complex, a project that the Borough has been planning for a number of years. Additionally, DeFinis oversaw the Borough’s Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine Program for behind the meter generation and the advanced metering system installation.

DeFinis is an active member of the Pennsylvania Municipal Electric Association, working to ensure that public power is well represented before state and federal policymakers.

The Larry Hobart Seven Hats Award recognizes managers of small utilities serving fewer than 2,500 meters who have a small staff and must assume multiple roles.

View official APPA news release here.