Orinda introduces new planting technician and facilities superintendent

The City Council of Orinda welcomed two new employees during the meeting: Catherine Li, who goes by Kat, was introduced as the city's new planting technician in the Planning Department; and Ross Volker was introduced as the new facilities superintendent in Public Works.

The Planning Director introduced Catherine Li, noting she graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, with a degree in environmental management and protection and a minor in economics, and that she had completed a planning internship with the City of Walnut Creek. The director said Li helped develop a planning manual and a tracking system for alcoholic beverage permits during that internship and has prior customer-service experience.

Catherine Li spoke to the council: "I'm so excited to be here today with the City of Orinda. I'm actually from Moraga. So I have a deep appreciation and understanding of the La Mirinda community. And I'm really excited to help plan the future of Orinda." (quote as spoken in the meeting).

Public Works Director Christy introduced Ross Volker, who previously worked for Livermore Valley Unified School District as a maintenance manager overseeing 18 schools and supervised trade staff. Volker told the council he began as a sheet-metal worker and later moved into construction management and public construction roles; he said he looks forward to managing the library HVAC upgrade and other facilities projects.

The council and staff welcomed both employees and thanked them for joining the city.

No formal action was required for the introductions; they were presented as informational items.