MISSION VIEJO : City Applauds Efforts of 3 Top Employees

The top workers from three city departments have been named.

Purchasing assistant Pat Sparks was recognized for helping carry out the massive transfer of City Hall to a new location last September.

“She was instrumental with the City Hall move, spending numerous hours making sure every task was carried out at the best price available,” City Manager Dan Joseph said.

In her day-to-day duties, Sparks “can always be counted on to get the job done and done extremely well,” Joseph said. “She is always helpful, patient and thorough when dealing with staff.”

The city also honors the top firefighter and sheriff’s deputy each year.

Deputy Paul Harnett was chosen for his work in planning and organizing the city’s motorcycle unit.

“This motor unit has been responsible for a decline in the number of traffic accidents in the city,” Joseph said. Harnett “has pro-actively searched for ways to make law enforcement more efficient in Mission Viejo.”

Firefighter Mark Sanchez was selected for his dedication to youth activities.

Sanchez is a Fire Explorer adviser and “his involvement in the program allows the young people of our city to become more responsible and productive citizens,” Joseph said.

The fireman has also been involved in canned food drives and clothes collection for the needy.