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Recognition of Charles Cancellare for 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Farmers Branch
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BACKGROUND:
We are here today to celebrate 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Farmers Branch from Charles Cancellare. Although Charles’ most recent stint with the City spans 25 years, Charles began his career working for the City of Farmers Branch as the Irrigation and Facilities Foreman in January, 1982. A few years later he was promoted to the Athletics, Aquatics, and After School Program Supervisor. During this time, Charles left his mark on the Recreation side of the department when he wrote and implemented the Athletic Use Policy, doubled the attendance in the After School Program, introduced the Red Cross Learn to Swim Program, and started a summer swim team that competed in the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation League.
Looking to expand his horizons, Charles left briefly to take a position as the head of the Grounds Maintenance Department for the Carrollton Farmers Branch Independent School District. Despite many successes in this role, Charles’ heart always remained working for the City.
On August 1, 1994, Charles came back to the City of Farmers Branch as the Parks Superintendent where he remains to this day. Charles has worked tirelessly to form our parks and playgrounds into the award-winning sites you see today. His passion for what he does is evident everywhere you go and is part of what helped us earn the nickname, “City in a Park”. Some of Charles’ most notable accomplishments include:
o The building of Oran Good Field #2 by leveraging talents of in-house staff;
o Leveling and irrigating three soccer fields at Dallas Christian College;
o Overseeing the design and construction of the restroom and concession stand at Don Showman Park, Jaycee Park and Bill Cox Park;
o Working on the committee that designed and assisted in the construction of the Community Garden and Labyrinth;
o Assisting in the development of the Trail Master Plan;
o Completing the Master Plan for the John F. Burke Nature Preserve; and finally
o Assisting with the design and construction of the Barney Wood Bark Park that opened just last month.
Anyone who knows Charles knows that he has never met a stranger. He always has a smile to welcome you, a word of encouragement to lift you up, and a heart the size of Texas. His level of knowledge is seemingly unmatched, and his work-ethic is surely one to be admired.
Charles has one son, Jefferson, and currently resides in Dallas with his lovely wife Gina. When not at work, Charles can be found on the lake with friends and family, serving and attending church, or simply enjoying being outdoors bird watching with Gina. Please join me in recognizing Charles Cancellare and his valuable contributions to the City of Farmers Branch.
FISCAL IMPACT:
(Choose One)
1. No Financial Impact