The City of San Gabriel held its annual Employee Service and Recognition Awards on December 3, 2024, celebrating the dedication and achievements of city employees. City Manager Lazaretto opened the ceremony by acknowledging the hard work of the entire city team, emphasizing their contributions to the community throughout the year.

The event honored employees for their service milestones, with awards presented to those reaching five, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five, and even thirty years of service. Notable recipients included Jessica Zhao and Liz Mendoza, who were recognized for their thirty years of commitment to the city. The ceremony also highlighted the importance of teamwork and collaboration among city departments.

In addition to service milestones, the awards recognized outstanding performance in various categories. Matthew Morales Stevens received the Leadership Award for his exceptional coordination of the bridal SG program and his mentorship of new employees. The Customer Service Award went to the Facilities Division team, who were commended for their dedication and positive attitude in maintaining city facilities.

Other awards included the Innovation Award for Alan Mai, who contributed innovative ideas to the Public Works department, and the Teamwork Award for the Planning Division, recognized for their professionalism in overseeing major city projects. The Wastewater Division received the Emergency Response Award for their 24-hour service in managing sewer issues.

The Community Service Award was presented to the Community Engagement Bureau of the Police Department for their efforts in fostering partnerships with local school districts and enhancing community collaboration. Part-time employees Eliza Rosco and Kiana Toma were also recognized for their outstanding customer service.

The ceremony concluded with the Overall Work Performance Award, which was shared by Jessica Zhao and Marilyn Bonas, both praised for their exceptional work ethic and contributions to their respective departments.

The event not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the city’s commitment to recognizing the hard work of its employees, ultimately benefiting the San Gabriel community. As the meeting transitioned to public comments, it highlighted the city’s openness to community engagement and feedback.