Congrats to Priscilla Gonzales on being named the Town Manager’s Power Performer for June 2026! This recognition is well deserved after Priscilla stepped forward during a recent situation on Main Street to help resolve a permitting issue involving construction work near one of our historic buildings.

The Town had recently received multiple complaints about businesses on Main Street not seeking permits for construction work when required. This had become a Council issue and a matter requiring immediate resolution. As part of the corrective action, the Community Development Director required the Building Official to walk this area and inform our businesses of permitting requirements.

Several weeks ago, while driving down Main Street, I noticed a large commercial crane blocking traffic near one of our businesses. I asked the operator if he had a permit to operate this kind of vehicle on Main Street, as these vehicles are not allowed without authorization given the fragile condition of our historic buildings. The driver stated he did not, and I cautioned him that the work could not continue until authorization was obtained.

I contacted Community Development to have the Building Official respond; however, he was unavailable. Understanding the seriousness of the situation, Priscilla Gonzales volunteered to respond to the location with the Town Engineer to see what she could do. Now, this is not Priscilla’s job; however, she has extensive knowledge of the permitting process as part of her duties and understood that something needed to be done.

Priscilla and the Town Engineer went to the location, assessed the situation, and provided the owner with the required documentation. Given the circumstances, she determined the work needed to be accomplished and put the proper procedures in place, educated the owner on the permitting requirements, and allowed the fee to be paid the following day.

This involved a faulty air conditioner, and given the extreme heat at the time and the forecast for the days ahead, Priscilla made an executive decision that was truly remarkable for someone in her position. Instead of stopping the work and causing the owner additional costs, along with inconvenience to employees and customers, she allowed the work to continue with the proper protocols in place.

Although the owner should have known a permit was required for the work taking place, Priscilla addressed the situation with the customer service I would have expected from senior leadership. Outstanding! Well done, Priscilla!