By Sara Beth Williams–
The City of Citrus Heights honored Senior Planner Alison Bermudez ahead of her retirement during the July Citrus Heights City Council and Planning Commission meetings.
The city said Bermudez has had a “lasting impact on our community.”
“From helping shape the City’s first General Plan to advancing affordable housing, trail projects and Tree City USA designation, Alison’s leadership and commitment have left a legacy that will benefit Citrus Heights for generations to come,” the city said in a statement.
During the July 8 City Council meeting and July 14 Planning Commission meeting, Bermudez received proclamations from each respectively, honoring her in her retirement.
“Alison has been a trusted colleague to city staff across all departments, providing guidance, historical insight, and steady support, and has earned the admiration and respect of coworkers, community members and regional partners alike, through professionalism, collaboration and dedication to public service,” Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taff said at the July 8 City Council meeting, also praising Bermudez’s strong character and steadfast dedication.
Community Development Director Casey Kempenaar also praised Bermudez, saying her retirement represents the end of an “incredible chapter.” Kempenaar said her career has touched “every corner of our community.”
Bermudez was “instrumental” in helping advance the city’s first General Plan and Zoning ordinance, helping to “establish a comprehensive planning foundation that continues to guide the city’s long-term growth and development,” the city said.
Bermudez also contributed “significantly” to multiple community projects, including the Auburn Boulevard improvements, Sunrise Mall and Sunrise Tomorrow planning efforts, and multiple trail projects. Bermudez also led in development of the Sunrise Pointe apartment complex, the city’s first affordable housing project, the city said, adding that she also served as a lead project manager for the Sayonara Housing Project, in which the city has partnered with Habitat for Humanity Greater Sacramento to bring 26 affordable permanent homes to Citrus Heights.
Bermudez also spoke, giving remarks on highlights over the last 26 years.
“I have grateful to have served a small role in that journey and to have served alongside so many dedicated colleagues, leaders and residents,” Bermudez said.
During the Planning Commission meeting, Bermudez highlighted how grateful she was for all of the relationships she has built over the last two decades.
City Council members praised Bermudez, with councilmember Jayna Karpinski-Costa calling her “phenomenal,” and saying that she has left a legacy. Vice Mayor Porsche Middelton also praised Bermudez for her patience, and willingness to find solutions and not give up.
“Every time you drive the streets, you’re going to say, ‘I did that,'”, Karpinski-Costa told Bermudez.
Bermudez began her career with Citrus Heights in September of 2000, and over the years served as a planning technician, senior planning technician, junior planner, associate planner, and was appointed to senior planner in March 2022.
