In these newsletters, I've been spotlighting departments embodying our Guiding Principles: value diverse perspectives, communicate openly, be proactive, and support innovation.

This month I’d like to highlight our Parks and Rec Department, specifically Jason Busdeker and Anthony Anaszewicz, for their innovative work implementing RecTrac for Deerpath Park athletic fields scheduling. The project involves leveraging new technology and embracing a new process to allow residents and partner organizations to schedule real-time use of available space, while offering a variety of different field configurations. This effort will maximize use of the new fields while improving the customer experience when reserving field time.

I appreciate the Rec team's commitment to finding innovative solutions – both through technology and process improvements. I look forward to continuing to hear how other departments are exemplifying our Guiding Principles through the great work you do every day.

Save the date!

2024 Chili Cook Off will be held on April 27.

Have a killer chili recipe? Enter the contest!

Email Matt Goodman or Brina Diaz to enter.

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS

Luke Miller

Public Works - Streets

The City gladly welcomes Luke back to our Public Works Department as a Maintenance Worker II. Luke previously worked for our Streets Section from 2018-2022. Welcome Back Luke!

Cynthia Lowrance

Finance Department

Cynthia joins our Finance team as an Account Clerk III. Cynthia brings years of experience from the City of Zion. She enjoys spending time with her black lab, Annie, and bowls in a league once a week. Stop by the front counter at MS and welcome Cindy!

Melissa Laird

Office of the City Manager

Melissa joins the City as a Management Analyst. Along her Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration. Melissa brings extensive experience from the City of Tustin California. Melissa enjoys traveling, sailing, hiking, biking, golfing and watching baseball. Stop by City Hall and welcome Melissa!

Edwin Martinez

Public Works - Parks

Edwin began his career at the City as a Seasonal Maintenance Worker in 2022. In 2023 he became apart of our new Apprentice program in the Streets Section. We are happy to announce the Edwin is now a Full-time employee in our Parks Sections. Congratulations Edwin!

Michael Rivera

Fire Department

Michael joins the City as a Firefighter Paramedic. Along with his Associates in Fire Science, Michael brings extensive experience from other municipalities. Michael enjoys being outdoors, physical activity, flying his drone and spending time with his family and friends. If you see Michael at our Public Safety Building or Fire Station 2 make sure to welcome him to the City!

We would like to congratulate Sally Swarthout on her retirement after 26 years of service to the City. Thank you, Sally, for all your hard work and dedication throughout the years.

We would like to congratulate Charles Kriens on his retirement after 10 years of service to the City. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication throughout the years.

Our first Challenge of 2024 kicks off on March 4.

Looking to join the gym? Those enrolled in PBA insurance, through the PBA Portal and navigating to the Active and Fit tab (pictured below), you will be directed to Active&Fit Direct, PBA's fitness program which provides flexible, low-cost memberships to over 12,000 standard fitness centers.

Do you have a healthy recipe to share? Earn 5 points for each recipe, with a maximum of 25 points towards your Think Healthy. Email Zenaida your recipes today!

10 Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes

Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls - Great appetizer for your Super Bowl party!!