DeSoto Launches New Community Service and External Affairs Department

By Joshua Carter Oct 9, 2024 #CityofDesoto #Community Service #External Affairs #News

The City of DeSoto has announced the creation of its new Community Service and External Affairs Department.

The new department is a new initiative aimed at improving communication, outreach, and public engagement across the city.

The department will bring together various city functions under one umbrella to create a more cohesive, transparent, and collaborative approach to serving the needs of residents, staff, and visitors.

Dr. Esther Williams has been named the Director of the new department, following her promotion from Assistant to City Manager.

Dr. Williams is joined by Andreanna “Dre” Jarrett, who has moved into the role of Community Service and External Affairs Coordinator after serving in the City Secretary’s office.

Together, they will lead a diverse team of professionals focused on strengthening DeSoto’s relationships with the community and enhancing service delivery.

The department also includes key personnel from various departments.

Key personnel include:

Matt Smith: Communications Manager
Latoya Fondren: Marketing Coordinator
Melissa Jones: Community Relations and Grants Coordinator
Valerie Villacorta: Grants Specialist, previously part of the Mayor’s Internship Program
John Malvern: Environmental Health Specialist
Rolanda Brigham: Arts, Culture, and Heritage Manager
Denise Martinez and Sonya Randall: Action Center Administrative Assistants
Becky Lewis: Executive Administrative Assistant to the City Manager

The creation of this department is specifically designed to improve the city’s transparency and engagement with the community.

The department’s responsibilities will include overseeing communications, marketing, community outreach, and grants management, among other functions.

The city hopes that by centralizing these roles, they can better address community needs and improve the effectiveness of city programs.

Residents are encouraged to visit the City of DeSoto’s website for more information and to stay connected with the department as it rolls out new initiatives and services.

By Joshua Carter

Joshua Carter, a Dallas native, is a seasoned journalist with a passion for storytelling. He holds a bachelor's degree in Broadcast and Digital Journalism from the University of North Texas and has previously worked for the Dallas Express. Throughout his career, Joshua has interviewed a diverse range of personalities, from Mark Cuban to Ice Cube, providing unique insights into their lives. With a commitment to excellence, he continues to captivate audiences with his compelling storytelling and insightful interviews.