Clean Water Association honors Narragansett Bay Commission chairman Vin Mesolella

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Rhode Island Clean Water Association recognized several members of the Narragansett Bay Commission (NBC), including agency leadership, an employee, and one of its wastewater treatment facilities, during an awards presentation.

Vincent J. Mesolella Jr. will receive the organization’s first-ever Clean Water Advocate Award, recognizing decades of leadership, mentorship, advocacy, and support for workforce development within the clean water profession. Mesolella has served as chairman of the Narragansett Bay Commission for 35 years and has been a member of the board since the early 1980s. The association said the award was created to honor individuals who have helped strengthen industry standards while protecting public health and the environment.

The association also presented its inaugural Young Professional Award to NBC employee CJ Spellman, a principal environmental engineer recognized for leadership and involvement in advancing the wastewater industry early in his career. The award honors professionals with fewer than eight years of experience who demonstrate strong engagement and commitment to the field.

In addition, NBC’s Bucklin Point Wastewater Treatment Facility will receive the Joseph Mattera Safety Award for its commitment to workplace safety and operational excellence.

The Narragansett Bay Commission is the public agency responsible for wastewater treatment and sewer operations serving much of northern Rhode Island, including Providence and surrounding communities. The commission oversees several major treatment facilities and has led large-scale projects aimed at reducing pollution flowing into Narragansett Bay while improving water quality and environmental protection throughout the region.