Although the old signs are still technically functional, their fading color raises big alarms for this team whose main priority is Southlake safety. With the fading signs officially retired, the division has enhanced the safety experience for every driver and pedestrian that will interact with the crosswalk moving forward.
Trent Agan and Jase Arellano prepare for their sign replacement project
Every day can look different for this team, but it all revolves around three words: Preventative, Proactive, Protection.
This boots-on-the-ground group of professionals is tasked with the responsibility of establishing and maintaining traffic measures throughout the city, from ensuring traffic signals are functioning properly to replacing old signs like they do now.
“If we didn't do this work, there would be no structure in how people interact with our infrastructure," Trent Agan, Crew Leader said. "That could create dangerous situations, immense congestion, and the inability for our emergency services to get where they need to go."
If you think about infrastructure as a computer, the Traffic Division is the antivirus that establishes ways to prevent damage when utilizing the roadways. Thankfully, Southlake invests in highly qualified individuals to manage this aspect of road safety.
“Our job demands a deep understanding of traffic control systems, extensive technical skills, and the ability to adapt to various challenges on the job,” Eli Martin Del Campo, Traffic Management Technician said. “There is significant expertise and dedication required for each of our tasks because it involves extremely important work. Our citizens and emergency services rely on traffic lights and road signs every time they hit the road.”
The team works to replace the old sign
Part of this expertise is evident in the City’s extensive preventative maintenance program designed by Crew Leader Trent Agan that surpasses what’s required by State standards and sets the Southlake team apart from similar cities. Within the program, the team services our city’s 36 school zone flashers, 22 crosswalk flashers, 13 battery backup units, and 7 traffic signals every single week to ensure they are working properly.
That means any time you stop at a City-owned red light or slow in a school zone, someone from the Traffic Division team has personally checked the bulbs and wiring to ensure you are safe on the roads.
Jase Arellano poses with the newly replaced crosswalk sign
“Everything we do impacts the flow of traffic, so it’s crucial that we do it right," Jase Arellano, Traffic Management Technician, explained. "Every sign, crosswalk, and traffic signal in the city undergoes research and maintenance to ensure maximum efficiency."
The impact of this work is noticeable everywhere in the city, subtly affecting your daily commute each time you apply the brakes or enjoy a string of green lights. These little details that contribute to massive overall safety are thanks to the behind-the-scenes work of the Traffic Division.
“We’re committed to enhancing the overall quality of life for residents by creating safer roads and shorter commutes whenever possible,” Miguel Palos, Traffic Supervisor said. “Our team is passionate about ensuring the safety and efficiency of our city's transportation system.”
Today, we highlight more exciting leadership changes that the Community Services Department has undergone lately. The beginning of Fiscal Year 24 saw the internal promotion of three incredible home-grown talents to three key positions within the Department.
Amy Bennett Promotes to Champions Club Operations Manager
In mid-October, Amy Bennett was promoted to Champions Club Operations Manager. Amy's journey with Community Services spans over thirteen years, during which she has demonstrated unwavering dedication and a passion for excellence. Beginning from the ground up, Amy has steadily ascended through the ranks in the Community Services Department, showcasing her versatility in overseeing athletics, programs, camps, Club Metro, events, and more.
Amy's leadership as the Assistant Recreation manager was pivotal in Champions Club's successful launch and ongoing success. Venturing outside her comfort zone, she took charge of key revenue growth areas, steering the membership and fitness programs to unprecedented heights. Amy's commitment to delivering world-class customer service is instrumental in fostering a thriving community within Champions Club.
Jennifer Blackstock Becomes New Recreation Programs Manager
Following a rigorous selection process that attracted numerous highly qualified candidates, Jennifer Blackstock was promoted to Recreation Programs Manager at the end of last year. Jennifer's journey with the city began in 2018, and her strong leadership qualities have been evident since day one. Her tenacity and unwavering dedication to strong planning, staff training, and unparalleled pool safety and quality made her an outstanding Aquatics Supervisor. She will bring those qualities into her new role overseeing Southlake’s world-class recreation programs.
This promotion is a testament to her dedication, skills, and the positive impact she has made within the Community Services Department. We can’t wait to see what amazing things her team will accomplish under her leadership.
Zack Miller Steps Up as New Aquatics Supervisor
Zack Miller recently took over the Aquatics Supervisor position. Starting in a part-time role at the Marq, Zack's journey exemplifies the City of Southlake's commitment to fostering talent from within. Zack’s willingness to get involved, help solve departmental-wide problems, and commitment to world-class customer service helped him transition from a part-time Champions Club front desk employee to the full-time Aquatics Center Coordinator.
His technical knowledge and outstanding skills in aquatics have been a valuable asset, setting him up for success as he steps into the Aquatics Supervisor role.
Congratulations Amy Bennett, Jennifer Blackstock, and Zack Miller on your well-deserved promotions. These advancements signify the city's dedication to promoting learning and growth!
After months of eager anticipation, the Southlake Pickleball Complex has officially swung open its doors, ready for its inaugural serve.
On Tuesday, February 20, city officials came together to mark a historic moment at Bicentennial Park—the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Southlake's much-awaited Pickleball Complex! The nation's fastest-growing sport has found its home in Southlake, and we are beyond thrilled!
The ribbon-cutting event was held with typical Southlake flair, with City Council leaders, the Southlake Parks Development Corporation, and the Park and Recreation Board assembling to unveil this exciting addition to the community. Mayor John Huffman, City Council Member and SPDC President Randy Williamson, and Park and Recreation Board Chair Magdalena Battles highlighted the significance of this achievement and expressed gratitude to the many individuals who contributed to making this project a reality.
The night concluded with the winners of the Citizen Survey contest having the privilege of being the first residents on the courts. These lucky individuals were the inaugural guests to experience the world-class facility, which boasts eight Pickleball courts, a stunning Championship Court, inviting gathering spaces, and ample shade structures. It was a fantastic event, marking the official launch of this exciting new facility.
A special thank you goes out to the dedicated group of individuals who served on the pickleball task force led by SPDC president and City Council Member Randy Williamson, Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Talley, and Former Park and Recreation Board Chair Frances Scharli. This team worked for well over a year with City staff engaging with stakeholders while helping to develop an operations plan and pricing structure that prioritized resident use while also providing excellent opportunities for access by all.
The City of Southlake Pickleball staff has also put in tireless effort over the past few months, implementing best practices, crafting policies, conducting training exercises, and guiding our first guests through the state-of-the-art facility. This dedicated team is now eager to welcome the entire community to the Southlake Pickleball Complex.
The Southlake Pickleball Complex is now open! Head to our website for details on membership, operating hours, open play, court reservations, and more!
After months of eager anticipation, the Southlake Pickleball Complex has officially swung open its doors, ready for its inaugural serve.
On Tuesday, February 20, city officials came together to mark a historic moment at Bicentennial Park—the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Southlake's much-awaited Pickleball Complex! The nation's fastest-growing sport has found its home in Southlake, and we are beyond thrilled!
The ribbon-cutting event was held with typical Southlake flair, with City Council leaders, the Southlake Parks Development Corporation, and the Park and Recreation Board assembling to unveil this exciting addition to the community. Mayor John Huffman, City Council Member and SPDC President Randy Williamson, and Park and Recreation Board Chair Magdalena Battles highlighted the significance of this achievement and expressed gratitude to the many individuals who contributed to making this project a reality.
The night concluded with the winners of the Citizen Survey contest having the privilege of being the first residents on the courts. These lucky individuals were the inaugural guests to experience the world-class facility, which boasts eight Pickleball courts, a stunning Championship Court, inviting gathering spaces, and ample shade structures. It was a fantastic event, marking the official launch of this exciting new facility.
A special thank you goes out to the dedicated group of individuals who served on the pickleball task force led by SPDC president and City Council Member Randy Williamson, Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Talley, and Former Park and Recreation Board Chair Frances Scharli. This team worked for well over a year with City staff engaging with stakeholders while helping to develop an operations plan and pricing structure that prioritized resident use while also providing excellent opportunities for access by all.
The City of Southlake Pickleball staff has also put in tireless effort over the past few months, implementing best practices, crafting policies, conducting training exercises, and guiding our first guests through the state-of-the-art facility. This dedicated team is now eager to welcome the entire community to the Southlake Pickleball Complex.
The Southlake Pickleball Complex is now open! Head to our website for details on membership, operating hours, open play, court reservations, and more!
The spotlight was firmly on the City of Southlake's Community Services Department at the recent DFW Directors Association Awards Ceremony, where the team clinched three prestigious accolades.
The event, held at the state-of-the-art Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center, celebrated excellence in the Parks and Recreation profession, bringing together professionals from the dynamic DFW metroplex.
The Community Services Department's commitment to excellence and the exemplary achievements of its world-class professionals were recognized across three distinct categories:
Parks Manager Mike Reasoner - Distinguished Professional Award: In his 20 years with the City of Southlake, Mike Reasoner has witnessed the parks system grow to over 1,100 acres and has managed several major park improvement projects. His attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and commitment to teamwork make him an outstanding Parks Manager and a valuable member of the Southlake team.
Community Relations Manager Vicky Schiber - Excellence in Mentoring Award: Vicky Schiber serves as the Community Relations Manager, and is a catalyst for professional development, empowering young professionals to grow in their field. This summer, Vicky mentored a part-time Recreation Specialist-turned-intern, helping him secure a coveted full-time position with another department in the City. Her dedication to teaching essential skills and fostering growth underscores her role as a mentor committed to the success of her team members.
Programs Staff Jonathan Weeks, Sara Farris, and Jason Ellison for Club Metro Summer Camp - Inclusion Award: Club Metro, Southlake's premiere Adaptive Recreation Program, expanded into a summer camp for the first time this year. The sold-out run and perfect Net Promoter scores showcased the success of Club Metro Camp, held during the weeks of June 26-30 and July 31-August 4. The full-day camp featured activities, meals, and exciting outings, ensuring all participants' needs were met. After this impactful first year, the staff eagerly anticipates hosting Club Metro Camp next summer.
The 2024 DFW Directors Association Awards Ceremony was a fun staff-bonding event, hosted at the impressive Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center. What made the victories even sweeter was the element of surprise, as award winners were kept in the dark about their nominations until the grand reveal.
"The City of Southlake congratulates all the award winners for their outstanding achievements and the phenomenal service they provide to our residents," said David Miller, Director of the Community Services Department. "We take immense pride in our team's commitment to excellence, and these awards are a testament to their hard work and dedication."
As the Community Services Department continues to set benchmarks in the field, the City of Southlake looks forward to even greater accomplishments and contributions to the well-being and enrichment of the community.
The most wonderful time of the year is upon us. Many businesses are winding down for the holidays, but the Community Services Department is working hard to provide world-class holiday programming to residents of all ages.
Breakfast with Santa may have already passed, but there’s still a lot of holiday cheer to look forward to. We’re wrapping up the year with a bang, and we can’t wait to celebrate the holidays with all our residents. Here’s a quick overview of all the incredible holiday programs this month.
Club Metro Winter Palooza
Club Metro had a great year, and it’s all lead up to the Winter Palooza. Our participants will celebrate the holidays at Legends Hall on Wednesday, December 13 at 6:00 PM. Get ready to dance your socks off, eat delicious food, take photos with friends, and show off your ugliest holiday sweater! Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the celebration.
Seniors Holiday Party and Gift Exchange
There’s no merrier place than the Southlake Senior Activity Center. Bring your holiday cheer as we celebrate another successful year with a light lunch and a fun white elephant gift exchange on Thursday, December 14 from 11:30-1:00 PM. Limited spots remain.
Holiday Break Camp Mania- Christmas Week
Southlake’s favorite day camp is back to provide world-class structured and free play to your kiddos over the winter holidays. This program begins on Tuesday, December 26, and ends on Friday, December 29. Structured activities take place between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. Before and after care is provided free of charge from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. While this popular program is already sold out, we know it will be a week worth celebrating!
Holiday Break Camp Mania- New Year’s Week
Wring in the New Year with Holiday Break Camp Mania. There’s no better way to kick off the New Year before heading back to school than with Camp Mania! Enjoy all the fun activities planned by our awesome staff. This program will sell out fast!
We look forward to celebrating the upcoming holiday weeks with our incredible residents. Thanks for another year of creating life-long memories with us!
See you in 2024!
The most wonderful time of the year is upon us. Many businesses are winding down for the holidays, but the Community Services Department is working hard to provide world-class holiday programming to residents of all ages.
Breakfast with Santa may have already passed, but there’s still a lot of holiday cheer to look forward to. We’re wrapping up the year with a bang, and we can’t wait to celebrate the holidays with all our residents. Here’s a quick overview of all the incredible holiday programs this month.
Club Metro Winter Palooza
Club Metro had a great year, and it’s all lead up to the Winter Palooza. Our participants will celebrate the holidays at Legends Hall on Wednesday, December 13 at 6:00 PM. Get ready to dance your socks off, eat delicious food, take photos with friends, and show off your ugliest holiday sweater! Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the celebration.
Seniors Holiday Party and Gift Exchange
There’s no merrier place than the Southlake Senior Activity Center. Bring your holiday cheer as we celebrate another successful year with a light lunch and a fun white elephant gift exchange on Thursday, December 14 from 11:30-1:00 PM. Limited spots remain.
Holiday Break Camp Mania- Christmas Week
Southlake’s favorite day camp is back to provide world-class structured and free play to your kiddos over the winter holidays. This program begins on Tuesday, December 26, and ends on Friday, December 29. Structured activities take place between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. Before and after care is provided free of charge from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. While this popular program is already sold out, we know it will be a week worth celebrating!
Holiday Break Camp Mania- New Year’s Week
Wring in the New Year with Holiday Break Camp Mania. There’s no better way to kick off the New Year before heading back to school than with Camp Mania! Enjoy all the fun activities planned by our awesome staff. This program will sell out fast!
We look forward to celebrating the upcoming holiday weeks with our incredible residents. Thanks for another year of creating life-long memories with us!
See you in 2024!
The most wonderful time of the year is upon us. Many businesses are winding down for the holidays, but the Community Services Department is working hard to provide world-class holiday programming to residents of all ages.
Breakfast with Santa may have already passed, but there’s still a lot of holiday cheer to look forward to. We’re wrapping up the year with a bang, and we can’t wait to celebrate the holidays with all our residents. Here’s a quick overview of all the incredible holiday programs this month.
Club Metro Winter Palooza
Club Metro had a great year, and it’s all lead up to the Winter Palooza. Our participants will celebrate the holidays at Legends Hall on Wednesday, December 13 at 6:00 PM. Get ready to dance your socks off, eat delicious food, take photos with friends, and show off your ugliest holiday sweater! Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the celebration.
Seniors Holiday Party and Gift Exchange
There’s no merrier place than the Southlake Senior Activity Center. Bring your holiday cheer as we celebrate another successful year with a light lunch and a fun white elephant gift exchange on Thursday, December 14 from 11:30-1:00 PM. Limited spots remain.
Holiday Break Camp Mania- Christmas Week
Southlake’s favorite day camp is back to provide world-class structured and free play to your kiddos over the winter holidays. This program begins on Tuesday, December 26, and ends on Friday, December 29. Structured activities take place between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. Before and after care is provided free of charge from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. While this popular program is already sold out, we know it will be a week worth celebrating!
Holiday Break Camp Mania- New Year’s Week
Wring in the New Year with Holiday Break Camp Mania. There’s no better way to kick off the New Year before heading back to school than with Camp Mania! Enjoy all the fun activities planned by our awesome staff. This program will sell out fast!
We look forward to celebrating the upcoming holiday weeks with our incredible residents. Thanks for another year of creating life-long memories with us!
See you in 2024!
The autumn season has brought a whirlwind of exciting changes to Champions Club, and we can't wait to share the buzz with you. One of the most thrilling updates is the arrival of our new team members, each bringing their unique energy to elevate your experience.
First in line is Ryan Tompkins, our enthusiastic Fitness Supervisor. With a passion for motivating you towards your fitness goals, he's here to make your workouts extraordinary. Ryan is very excited to join the Champions Club team. “The people (members, staff, co-workers, and supervisors are awesome! Everyone has gone out of their way to make me feel welcome in joining the team!”
Here are a few fun tidbits about Ryan:
But that's not all—say hello to Hayde Miranda, our new Guest Services Supervisor! Hayde's exceptional performance as the Champions Club Rentals Coordinator earned her this role, and she's all about delivering world-class experiences.
Discover what Hayde has to say about her exciting new position. “It has been a pleasure working with the Southlake community and getting to know all our wonderful members. Southlake is an incredibly vibrant city, and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of the Community Services team. Our team delivers excellence and is wholeheartedly dedicated to providing world-class experiences!”
Next up is Vanessa Sanchez, the creative genius behind our member appreciation events, fabulous giveaways, and goal-crushing campaigns as the Membership Services Coordinator. Get ready to be wowed by her innovative ideas as you embark on your Champions Club journey. When asked about her impressions of Champions Club so far, Vanessa stated, “I have enjoyed the community that surrounds me. Everyone has been so welcoming and kind to me throughout my time here at Champions Club. I appreciate all the help and patience from those I work and interact with every day.”
Get to know her a bit better:
Last but not least, meet Anna Valdez, the Rentals Coordinator extraordinaire. She's your go-to for transforming our spaces into epic event zones. Imagine your next birthday party becoming a life-long memory, all thanks to Anna. Anna has already made a great impression. “What I have enjoyed most about working at Champions Club so far is the fun environment that I am welcomed with every day when coming to work. Whether it’s with the guests or my coworkers, Champions Club knows how to have fun!”
Find out more about her and her talents:
These incredible individuals have already hit the ground running in their new roles, and we couldn't be more thrilled to have them as part of the team. To our Champions Club members, be sure to give them a warm welcome and say hello when you see them. Together, we're shaping the future of Champions Club!
You have to be ready for anything in Parks and Recreation. Things can change constantly, and the best professionals are always ready to respond.
There’s a new face in the Programs Division, the new Programs Supervisor, Sara Farris! Sara recently joined us from the City of Denton and is already positively impacting the Community Services team! With extensive, city, recreation, and programming experience, we are lucky to have someone like Sara stepping into this critical position.
Let’s get to know her a bit better.
How long have you worked in municipal government?
I started working part-time for the City of Plano Parks and Recreation in July 2002 at Carpenter Park Recreation Center. I became full-time there in 2004. I was a Recreation Coordinator in charge of Adult classes. I then moved to the Tom Muehlenbeck Center in Plano in 2010 as the Lifeguard Coordinator, then became the Aquatic Supervisor in 2012. I left in 2016 to be the Recreational Care Supervisor in Denton. I came here in July 2023!
What’s your favorite part about working in Recreation?
My favorite part about working in recreation is getting to help people create memories. I love that it’s different every day, and the people are great!
What’s something everyone should know about programming?
Recreation programs are great if you are thinking about trying something new. You could pick up a new hobby, skill, or knowledge from taking one class. Get creative and expand your horizons!
What are you most looking forward to in this new position?
Summer Camp is always my favorite time of year. I am looking forward to meeting the campers and being a part of their amazing summer next year. I am also looking forward to expanding my programming knowledge with Club Metro.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I have a side hustle where I make shirts and personalized items in my free time. I also run and hang out with my kids. They are super involved in gymnastics and flag football!
Welcome to the team, Sara! We’re so happy to have you on board! Be on the lookout for the innovative and fun programs put together by Sara and her team!
