The Fairfield Chamber of Commerce has announced that Haye’s Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is the 2026 Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year. Serving the community since 1960, Haye’s has been recognized for its long-standing commitment and excellence.
Located at 516 SE 4th St. in Fairfield and owned and operated by Carl and Cindy Hayes, this business is built on a strong family legacy. Gene Hayes earned his plumbing certification in 1958 and, after running a bakery in downtown Fairfield, opened Hayes Plumbing & Heating in 1960.
Carl began working alongside his father at just 14 years old and made plumbing his lifelong career. Following Gene’s passing in 1997, Carl stepped in to lead the business, continuing its reputation for dependable service both in the field and in management. Today, Carl and Cindy’s son Clint is stepping into more of the management role, becoming the third generation of Hayes men to serve third-generation Wayne County families. And yes — you’ll still see Clint on job sites at all hours of the day and night.
The Hayes family credits their success to a supportive community and their dedicated staff: Seth Garret, Trevor Taulbee, and Lathan Lane.
If you can’t reach them at the office, they’re likely out helping customers. Leave a message and they will return your call as soon as possible. Their work isn’t always a quick fix — some jobs take longer, emergencies arise, and like many small businesses, they balance it all while staying committed to both their customers and their families.
Carl and Cindy have two children, Clint and Cassidy and her husband Ben Woolridge (who now reside in Decatur but have both been involved in the business at one point in time), and two grandchildren, Isla and Elijah. They are active members of Fairfield Christian Church. Clint volunteers with the Fairfield Rural Fire Department, supports Isla in her activities, and is involved with First Christian Church.
Carl, Cindy, and Clint extend their heartfelt thanks to the community for its continued support over the years. This honor would not be possible without the people they serve and the team that stands beside them every day.
Community members and business leaders are invited to attend the Chamber’s 2026 Annual Dinner Meeting, with tickets now available for purchase. The event will take place on Monday, March 9th, at the Willow Creek Venue, located on Highway 45 south of Fairfield.
Festivities will begin with a happy hour at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Tickets are $25 each and can be obtained at the Chamber Office at 121 E. Main St., Fairfield.
A highlight of Fairfield’s business calendar, the Annual Dinner Meeting celebrates local accomplishments and features the presentation of several honors, including Business of the Year, New Business of the Year, and the Community Service Award.