Shepherd bids farewell to her sheep

Environmental Board Coordinator Marilla Shepherd celebrated her last day of 28 years of service to the City of Austin on Wednesday. During their regular meeting, board members engaged in a heartfelt send-off ceremony for Shepherd, who worked with them for 10 years. Environmental Officer Chuck Lesniak presented her with a certificate of appreciation that commended her for excellent service, and board members individually thanked her for her work. Presenting Shepherd with a wrapped gift, Chair Mary Gay Maxwell said, “When you hear it in the wind, making beautiful music, we want you to think of us.” Shepherd thanked board members for their work and said a few words to those in attendance, which included her family. “My contributions toward making Austin, Texas, the most livable city for so, so, so many years and for so many customers has made me proud, and I feel happy that I’m retiring.” The board then welcomed Shepherd’s successor, Jessica Coronado, as the new Environmental Board Coordinator.