The Irvine City Council held a meeting to honor and celebrate the contributions of five employees with over 20 years of service on Sept. 24 at the Irvine City Hall. This event recognized multiple individuals who have put in efforts to make positive impacts on the City of Irvine.
Financial Administrator Gemma Calilong, who was honored with a certificate and a 3D number 20 award for her 20 years of service, began her career as a senior account technician and worked her way up to overseeing four billion dollars for the city.
Community service supervisor Steve Knollmiller, who is known by many Portola High students who have worked in Irvine volunteer programs, was honored for 25 years of service.
“It’s cliche to say this, but I feel like I really have never worked a day in my life because I do enjoy coming to work every day,” honoree Steve Knollmiller said. “I work with incredible people.”
Service Senior Leader M’Lis Fox, who recently worked in child care coordination, and Senior Management Analyst Angie Burgh, who contributed to public works and sustainability, were honored as well for their 25 years. Community Manager of Budget and Purchasing Jonathan Nih emphasized Burgh’s significant impact on her colleagues.
“What I find most enjoyable growing with Angie is just her positive attitude,” Nih said. “It is truly contagious. It makes everyone around her happier with their time working, and I actually see a lot of positive feedback from others about Angie.”
The evening concluded with applause for public safety supervisor Jodi Rahn, whose 30-year career involved a wide background in city work. Rahn coordinated the City of Irvine peer support team, offering resources and assistance to both the staff and residents of the city.
“What is most important is she’s going to walk away making you feel like somebody cared about what happened,” Assistant Chief of Police Noelle Smiley said. “And you’re going to appreciate the fact that she treated you like she would treat her family, and that is truly what sets Jodi apart.”
At the Irvine City Council Meeting, this celebration of long-tenured staff members was the main event. Many recognized staff members such as Knollmiller mention that in their time working for the City of Irvine, they have enjoyed their service and hope their efforts contributing to the city make a long lasting impression for years to come.
