Tacoma: City Council Confirms Appointment of Toni Esparza as Neighborhood & Community Services Director

~ On February 24, the Tacoma City Council officially announced the appointment of Toni Esparza as the new Neighborhood & Community Services Director. This decision was confirmed by Interim City Manager Hyun Kim, who recognized Esparza's extensive experience and leadership in various fields such as human services, youth development, community safety, and equity-centered systems change.

With over 25 years of experience in these areas, Director Esparza is set to take on her new role at the City of Tacoma on March 23. She previously served as the Assistant Director of the City of Bellevue's Parks and Community Services Department.

In an interview, Director Esparza expressed her passion for public service and her commitment to building systems that work for everyone. She believes that Neighborhood & Community Services plays a crucial role in promoting safety, belonging, and opportunity within a community. She also emphasized her dedication to collaborative leadership and working with the City Council, the Neighborhood & Community Services team, and residents to further strong and accountable systems.

During her time at the City of Bellevue, Director Esparza oversaw various initiatives serving over 150,000 residents. She co-authored the city's first Human Services Strategic Plan and realigned a $20 million contract portfolio to advance racial and economic equity. Additionally, she managed the distribution of pandemic relief funds to support vulnerable populations.

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Mayor Anders Ibsen expressed his confidence in Director Esparza's abilities to address crucial issues such as homelessness with a responsible regional approach. He believes that her grit and competency make her an ideal candidate for this position.

The Neighborhood & Community Services Department aims to create healthy and successful neighborhoods by leading community problem-solving efforts, funding human services programs, and partnering with community members to maintain safe, clean, and attractive neighborhoods.

Interim City Manager Kim praised Director Esparza's leadership skills in translating equity vision into daily practice. He highlighted her success in building engagement frameworks, amplifying resident voices, and implementing transparent performance systems. He also expressed his appreciation for Interim Director Vicky McLaurin's efforts over the past year and looks forward to seeing what Director Esparza will bring to the team and community in service to the City Council's mission and strategic vision.

With her extensive experience and dedication to promoting equity and community well-being, Director Esparza is poised to make a positive impact in her new role as Neighborhood & Community Services Director for the City of Tacoma.

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