Southgate honors dozens of employees with promotions, retirements and a parks appointment

The Southgate City Council spent the early part of its June 23 meeting recognizing a wave of personnel changes across the city.

Council members presented promotions to police and public-works staff, honored long-serving retirees and introduced several newly hired employees. Administrative Services Director Lewis Fra. detailed the backgrounds of promoted officers including Lieutenant Christopher Dalia and Sergeant Daniel Bernabi, noting long tenures with the department. Finance promotions included Belinda Martinez, who the city described as a lifelong Southgate resident with 25 years of experience in finance and customer service.

City Manager Houston told the council the recognitions came amid a structural budget deficit of approximately $9.4 million and the elimination of 32 positions during the last 18 months. He said staff and leadership were making "creative and compassionate" adjustments to preserve core services while still celebrating those advancing or completing long careers.

The council also appointed Tina Delar Roso to be the permanent parks and recreation director, effective next week. Mayor Joshua Baron and colleagues praised her work since joining the department in January 2023 and credited her for keeping parks programs running through the recent budget reductions.

The presentation ended with a round of photographs and public thanks to Father Angel Castro of St. Helen Church, who received a certificate of appreciation for his years of community service.

The city plans no formal policy actions tied to the recognitions; the council proceeded to regular business after the ceremonial portions concluded.