Insider Odessa
As the fall season reminds us of change and growth, it’s a good time to reflect on what leadership really means in our organization. At the City of Odessa, we believe that leadership is not defined by titles or positions—it is defined by actions, choices, and the example each of us sets every day. Whether you serve on the front lines with our citizens, behind the scenes keeping operations moving, or in a supervisory role guiding a team, you have opportunities to lead.
Leadership at every level means showing rofessionalism, integrity, continuous improvement, and amwork in everything we do. It can be as simple as nding a hand to a colleague, listening with empathy to resident, or suggesting an innovative idea to make ty services better. These small acts of leadership, ultiplied across our workforce, create a big impact for ur community.
his month, I encourage you to think about how you can ad from where you are. Ask yourself: What example m I setting? How am I helping others succeed? How m I contributing to a culture of trust and respect? hen we all take ownership of leadership, we fulfill our ission of providing a vibrant, secure community for all.
Thank you for the ways you lead each day. Odessa is stronger because of you.
DavidA.Vela,ICMA-CM,CityManager
Driven by Dedication
BY GABRYELYBARRA
A dedicated driver in the City of Odessa’s Solid Waste Division, Fabian DeLeon's journey is one of perseverance, commitment, and quiet determination.
DeLeon began his career with the City nearly four years ago, starting as a parttime worker. After demonstrating a strong work ethic and dedication, he was offered a full-time position.
Next, he worked to take classes for a CDL license, a special license needed to drive a trash truck With the support of his team and supervisors, he successfully earned his CDL-B license and now proudly serves as a roll-off driver for the City of Odessa.
Outside of work, Fabian DeLeon is just as active. A former baseball player at OHS who played the position of a 1st baseman, he now plays both softball and bowling regularly with friends. He is also an accomplished bowler! Fabian has bowled numerous perfect games, his first one at the age of 16.
Whenaskedabouthisfavoritepartof thejob,“I’mproudofhowfarI’vecome. GettingmyCDLwasn’teasy,butIdidn’t giveup.I’mgratefulforthepeoplewho supportedme,especiallymyteamand myboss.WorkingfortheCityofOdessa hasgivenmeachancetogrow,andI’m justthankfultobepartofit,"said DeLeon.
DeLeon’s story is a powerful reminder of what dedication and support can achieve. We’re proud to have him as part of the team here at the City of Odessa.
Keeping Odessa Flowing
BY GABRYEL YBARRA & MONICA MCDANIEL
The Activities Committee gave a big shout-out to our Stormwater Division for all the hard work they do for our community
“Every member of this team brings dedication, creativity, and heart to what they do,” said Monica Fuentez, Stormwater Program Manager.
Monica has worked for the City of Odessa for almost nine years.
She wants folks to get a better understanding of what they do.
“Many people don’t realize that stormwater runoff, also known as rainwater, flows over streets, lawns, and other surfaces. It can carry pollutants into our local waterways,” she said.
Her team works hard to manage and improve our city’s drainage systems They make sure the systems function properly to reduce the risk of flooding and minimize pollution It’s all about keeping our community safe and our environment clean.
Everyone on the team brings valuable expertise. They take real pride in the work they do to serve and protect the City of Odessa.
Monica also knows it takes the roughly 800 employees all working together to make a difference.
She said, “This recognition reminded me how important every role is in keeping the City running smoothly.”
Here’ssomethingelseyoumaynotrealizeaboutour StormwaterDivision.
“We’re also responsible for construction inspections and to make sure they don’t negatively impact our drainage infrastructure,” said Monica Fuentez.
Monica Fuentez with four members of our Stormwater Division.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
BY MONICA MCDANIEL
Hispanic Heritage Month is officially underway! City of Odessa employees, community members, and local leaders gathered at Dos Amigos for a special kickoff event hosted by Hispanic Heritage of Odessa.
Among those in attendance were Odessa Police and Odessa Fire Rescue. OPD Chief Mike Gerke opened the event with
a heartfelt prayer, while OFR Chief Jason Cotton led a powerful moment of silence in remembrance and reflection. The event also featured a highlight moment when Director of Communications, Monica McDaniel, presented the event’s highest honor, the “Madrina Award” to Marie Greer. Greer was recognized for her lasting impact on the Odessa Hispanic Community.
Carol Uranga and Liliana Marquez are among those in the picture Both work closely with our local leaders and are behind Hispanic Heritage of Odessa.
HispanicHeritageofOdessa honoredMayorCalHendrick andCouncilMembersCraig Stoker,EddieMitchell,and GilbertVasquezwithspecial awards.
The kickoff was filled with pride, tradition, and unity, honoring the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in Odessa and across the nation.
Hispanic Heritage Month runs through October 15, with more celebrations to come. Stay tuned as we continue to highlight the people and traditions that make Odessa t
Songs of Heritage at City Hall
BY COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA MCDANIEL
The highlight of the celebration was the music of Juana Jaquez and Mariachi Aguila, who transformed the lobby into a space alive with rhythm and joy. After all, who can resist smiling when a mariachi band plays?
Longtime City Secretary Norma Aguilar reflected on why the music matters: “Mariachi music is a rich, deep heritage of the Hispanic community. It’s how we express our loves, our sorrows, our stories. Today is about recognizing our present and celebrating our past.”
What began as an ordinary Tuesday became a celebration of culture, music, and friendship. The sound of mariachi music filled the lobby, reminding us that heritage is best honored when shared with the people around us.
On September 16, City employees gathered in the City Hall lobby to commemorate Mexico’s Independence Day and the start of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15). Mayor Cal Hendrick welcomed everyone, while the Communications Department treated us to pan dulce, sweet breads that paired perfectly with the moment. The event was organized by Carol Uranga, Executive Director of the Hispanic Heritage of Odessa. ¡Muchas gracias, Carol!
City Events Manager Leslie Muniz with members of Mariachi Aguila, because every great Tuesday deserves a soundtrack.
Veronica Hernandez, Joseph Goff, and Dalma Hernandez enjoyed lively music and sweet breads while celebrating our community’s heritage.
Mayor Cal Hendrick (on right), Councilmember Craig
of the
and
guests, and the Mariachi
As the music faded and the trays of pan dulce emptied, what lingered was the joy of connection. These gatherings remind us that every note of culture adds harmony to our community. We hope to see you at the next celebration.
Together, we make Odessa sing.
Learn More: History of Mariachi Music – El Paso Society for Musicians of the Future News Coverage: News 9 | DRB Media Communications
Stoker (far left in the back),
Carol Uranga, Executive Director
Hispanic Heritage of Odessa (front row, third from right) welcomed employees,
band
Carol Uranga and City Secretary Norma Aguilar shared smiles (and maybe a little extra pan dulce) during the festivities.
Investing in Growth
BY LESLIE MUNIZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY JON ROGERS
Park leaders learn, lead, and bring ideas back to Odessa
The Parks and Recreation Department attended the 2025 National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida last September. This conference brings together thousands of park professionals to share ideas, attend workshops, and explore new ways to strengthen communities through public parks.
Parks Maintenance Supervisor, Rocky Holtzclaw, has served the city for 20 years. He was inspired by Fort Worth’s success in turning vandalized spaces into safe, welcoming areas. He’s bringing those strategies to Odessa to enhance the safety and appearance of our parks.
“I plan to apply team building and communication strategies from the leadership sessions to strengthen our crews. Additionally, I want to explore new approaches to handling vandalism and graffiti prevention,” said Holtzclaw.
Joining him at the conference was Parks Superintendent, Randall Anderson with over 17 years of service. While Holtzclaw focused on maintenance and safety strategies, Anderson centered on leadership development, emphasizing trust and ownership within his team.
He will use these lessons to align park improvements more closely with public
Park leaders Continued...
FunParkFacts
Odessa has more than 30 public parks, offering a wide range of recreational options, including playgrounds, walking/biking trails, and lakes like:
ComancheTrailPark: Features a popular walking/biking trail, disc golf courses, and a stocked lake.
For Holtzclaw and Anderson, being able to attend the NRPA Conference shows that the City of Odessa truly values professional growth and is invested in giving staff the tools to succeed.
Check out our parks and the maps at https://www.odessa-tx.gov/564/TrailsParks
FreedomParkTrail: A shorter, well-known trail in the city
LawndaleParkTrail: Another accessible trail for walking and running
Sign up to join the awareness walk for National Homeless Day on Saturday, October 11, 2025 needs. “New approaches to management using things like Empowerment isn't about more tasks, it's about trust and ownership. It’s not about getting the most out of people, it’s about creating an environment where everyone can work to their natural best,” said Anderson.
Odessa Homeless Coalition celebrates the proclamation of October 11, 2025, as National Homeless Day for the City of Odessa.
(Back row) Anthony Lozano, Tammy Duke, Sylvia Campbell, Geno (Front) Andrea Quiroz, Sirisha Neerukonda, Naira Enriquez, Jesus Gomez, and Julia Cole.
So next time you need some outdoor fun, go to a park and explore.
BY ARIC MITCHELL
A special initiative that will change lives! Mayor Cal Hendrick was the guest speaker at the Downtown Lions Club. After the meeting, he rolled up his sleeves to assist members in sorting donated eyeglasses for a good cause.
“The Downtown Lions Club does a lot for our community,” said Mayor Hendrick
Helping Ha n
“They provide eyeglasses to the needy, which is so important because eyeglasses are expensive and not everyone can afford them. Without them, students can’t learn in school, and workers may struggle to do their jobs.”
Celebrating Our Leaders
BY LESLIE MUNIZ
The City of Odessa’s Activities Committee took a moment to honor City Councilmembers this week for their service and dedication. To say thanks, the committee shared some sweet treats with them.
“Thank you to the Activities Committee for the kind recognition. It’s an honor to serve, and I’m truly grateful for the support and thoughtfulness,” said District 4 Councilman Greg Connell.
“We want to thank the Activities Committee for taking time to honor the City Council because we know there are a lot of departments that they can be thinking about in the city. We appreciate it, and keep up the good work,” said District 1 Councilman Eddie Mitchell.
“We want to thank the Activities Committee for being so kind. A council job is seemingly nebulous, but it has a lot of work to it. We do it for the love of the city! I appreciate all my councilmen and the mayor in our effort to try to make Odessa, my home for 76 years, better than when I got here. So, thank you for the recognition. It’s greatly appreciated,” said District 2 Councilman Steven P. Thompson.
We truly appreciate our City Council for making Odessa a better place!
City of Odessa Hosts TML Region IV Meeting
BY ARIC MITCHELL
The City of Odessa was proud to host the Texas Municipal League (TML) Region IV Meeting, bringing together city officials and staff from across the region. The meeting provided an important platform to discuss key legislative issues affecting municipalities and the communities they serve.
During the event, leaders shared insights, exchanged ideas, and worked collaboratively to explore solutions that strengthen local governance. Hosting this gathering provided Odessa with the opportunity to highlight its role as a regional partner and demonstrate its commitment to addressing challenges through teamwork and shared knowledge.
The City of Odessa values the work of Texas Municipal League and the impact these discussions have in shaping policy and supporting communities across Texas.
Helping Teens Rewrite Their Future
BY: GABRYEL YBARRA & MONICA MCDANIEL
When Judge Robert L. Martin arrived in Odessa, he saw a need for a new type of teen court to better help troubled teens and their parents, so he started the City of Odessa's "Juvenile Night Court "
Judge Martin has a heart for helping youth His goal is simple, to steer youth in a new direction to make better choices.
Since the program is held in the evening, starting at 6:00 PM, students don't have to miss school, and most parents don't have to miss work.
“Our emphasis is balancing accountability with a second chance whenever possible. This applies to all defendants appearing in our Court, but is the main emphasis in juvenile cases,” stated Judge Martin.
Teens may have to take responsibility by doing community service, mentoring, or counseling.
Jennifer Brooks serves as the Juvenile Case Manager for Municipal Court. “We are here to make a success story out of the children. That’s my job to help youth get back on the right path," said Brooks.
“TheprimarygoalinOdessaMunicipalCourtis toensurealldefendantsaretreatedfairly,”said JudgeMartin.
The City of Odessa is seeking additional part-time judges to support this program. If you know a local, licensed, Texas attorney who may be interested in becoming a part-time Judge for Juvenile court, encourage them to apply.
All Municipal Judges are hired by the City Council, but they may contact Judge Martin, or Court Administrator, Ms. Leah Huff-Albertson, for additional information. Municipal Court’s number is 432-335-3300.
UPCOMING: EVENTS& MEETINGS
WWW.ODESSA-TX.GOV/CALENDAR
OCTOBER
10-3FIRSTFRIDAY-ODESSAARTS
10-11MONSTERDASH5KRUN
10-11WALKINGINTHESHOESOFTHEUNSHELTERED
10-14COUNCILWORKSESSION/MEETING
10-15ANIMALADOPTIONINFO.(BUBBA’S33)
10-17KOBRECYCLEFASHIONSHOW
10-18FALLFESTIVAL
10-20SPAY/NEUTERCLINIC
10-24FRIDAYNIGHTFLICKS-HOTELTRANSYLVANIA
10-27ANIMALADOPTIONINFO.(TEXASROADHOUSE)
10-28COUNCILWORKSESSION/MEETING
10-28OPDNEIGHBORHOODWATCH
10-31OPD&OFRTRUCK-OR-TREAT
NOVEMBER
11-1 ANIMAL ADOPTION INFO. (ODESSA JACKALOPES)
11-7 FIRST FRIDAY- ODESSA ARTS
11-8 BE THANKFUL 5K RUN
11-11 COUNCIL WORK SESSION/MEETING
11-25 COUNCIL WORK SESSION/MEETING
11-25 OPD NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
11-27/28 CITY OFFICES CLOSED (THANKSGIVING)
DECEMBER
12-4 TREE LIGHTING
12-5 FIRST FRIDAY- ODESSA ARTS
12-5 STARBRIGHT VILLAGE
12-6 PARADE OF LIGHTS
12-9 COUNCIL WORK SESSION/MEETING
12-13 JINGLE ALL THE WAY 5K RUN
12-24/25 CITY OFFICES CLOSED (CHRISTMAS)
Anniversaries
Birthdays
