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Receive a presentation from the Public Defender on the selection of Jennifer Artz as the July 2025 “Employee of the Month” for the County Administration Center Parking Program
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors receive a presentation from the Public Defender on the selection of Jennifer Artz as the July 2025 “Employee of the Month” for the County Administration Center Parking Program.
SUMMARY/ DISCUSSION:
On September 13, 2005, the Board of Supervisors established the County Government Center "Employee of the Month Parking" program for County employees. Each month a County department is designated to select one of its employees as "Employee of the Month". The Public Defender’s Office has selected Jennifer Artz as the deserving employee allowing her to park in the designated parking area for the month of July 2025.
Jennifer joined the Public Defender’s Office on January 3, 2023, as a Social Service Worker. Her responsibilities include locating suitable recovery programs for our clients, gathering mental health treatment history and other related client records, maintaining communication and close relationships with recovery programs, engaging with clients and facilitating their enrollment in services and programs specific to their needs, encouraging clients to achieve their goals and objectives, and working collaboratively with clients, attorneys and other advocates to achieve client’s stated legal goals.
From the moment Jennifer started, she has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to our clients. It is clear, Jennifer’s care and concern for the population served by the Public Defender is embedded in her heart and soul. She effectively collaborates across all disciplines to accomplish the best outcome for our clients. Her approach in reaching clients is transformative, resulting in positive life changes.
Jennifer is forward thinking and known for always going above and beyond expectations. She has made such a difference in our client centered and holistic approach that we cannot imagine doing this work without her. She has earned the reputation of the “go to” person in the office when you need help with clients who are struggling with substance abuse, mental health and/or unhoused. Jennifer has developed a network of connections and contacts that allows her to make a phone call and get immediate results. Her work ethic is unmatched. Jennifer is not one to shy away from a challenge, she consistently goes above and beyond.
Jennifer has an uncanny ability to immediately connect with people, she has never met a stranger. She welcomes and meets everyone where they are with no judgment. We are grateful for the opportunity to recognize Jennifer for her hard work, dedication and exceptional ability to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board of Supervisors could elect to acknowledge someone else as the Employee of the Month; however, this alternative is not recommended as Jennifer is deserving of the Department’s recognition.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The County Administrator’s Office concurs with the Department’s recommendation.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION