Celebrating Bellflower’s 2025 Employee Spotlights

Each month, the City of Bellflower proudly recognizes team members who exemplify dedication, leadership and a commitment to public service. As part of the City's ongoing focus on Goal #3 - Investing in a High-Performing and Efficient Team at City Hall- we're celebrating the standout employees highlighted throughout 2025.

DECEMBER: Esmeralda Erdelyan - Public Safety Manager

Esmeralda Erdelyan earned a well-deserved promotion to Public Safety Manager. Over the past decade, she has served the community through roles in Animal Control and Code Enforcement before advancing within the Public Safety Department. Her leadership and dedication to community well-being reflect Bellflower's core public service values.

NOVEMBER:Dakota Wallace - Management Analyst I

With nearly a decade of service, Dakota Wallace has built a strong foundation in recreation, community programs and government transparency. She began her career as a recreation leader in 2016, later coordinated programs at Simms Park and now plays an integral role in the City Clerk's Office, supporting legislative processes and maintaining accurate public records.

OCTOBER: Kristen Smith - Recreation Manager

This year, the City honored a remarkable milestone for Kristen Smith, who celebrated 35 years of service with the Parks and Recreation Department. Kristen began her career in 1989 as a part-time recreation leader supporting after-school programs and has since grown into a trusted department leader. Her decades of dedication continue to enrich Bellflower's recreational programs and community experience.

SEPTEMBER: Anna Garan -Director of Finance

The City welcomed Anna Garan as its new director of finance in September. A Cal State Long Beach graduate with Latin honors and a certified public accountant, Garan brings extensive experience from one of California's largest CPA firms. Her 14 years of service to Bellflower strengthen the City's financial stewardship as she steps into this key leadership role.

AUGUST: Public Works Asphalt Crew: Augie Araujo, James Mortley, Andrew Ricard & Daniel Godinez

The City recognized its asphalt crew for their essential role in maintaining Bellflower's streets. Together, the crew removes and replaces 13-15 tons of asphalt daily - repairing roadways down to the base to ensure long-lasting improvements and reduce future maintenance costs.

JUNE: Dana Hang - Human Resources and Risk Manager

Dana Hang joined the Bellflower team in May and brings a strong foundation in employee support and organizational leadership. She holds a bachelor's degree in business administration with a focus in human resources management from Cal Poly Pomona and a master's degree in public administration from Cal State Fullerton. Dana's commitment to fostering a positive workplace and effective HR practices makes her a valuable addition to the City's leadership team.

MAY: Mayra Ochiqui - City Clerk

A lifelong Bellflower resident, Mayra Ochiqui began her career with the City in 2012 as an aAdministrative assistant and has since advanced her role as City Clerk. She holds bachelor's degrees in English literature and creative writing, as well as a master's degree in creative writing, from the University of California, Riverside. Ochiqui supports residents, staff and the City Council while overseeing key operations such as public meetings, legislative records, public documents and municipal elections.

APRIL: Cesar Diaz - Recreation Supervisor

A proud Bellflower native, Cesar Diaz joined the City in 2006 and has advanced through the Parks and Recreation Department from recreation leader I to his current role as recreation supervisor. He earned his bachelor's degree in kinesiology from Cal State Fullerton and looks forward to supporting enriching morning programs for aging adults at the new Oak Center, as well as engaging activities for teens in the afternoon.

MARCH: Brian McNerney - Director of Public Safety

Brian McNerney brings extensive public service experience to his role as director of public safety. He holds an associate degree from Long Beach City College and both a bachelor's and master's degree from Cal State Long Beach. Brian began his Bellflower career in 2011 as a part-time community service officer and advanced through multiple roles before stepping into the director position in February 2025.

Bellflower extends its sincere thanks to all City employees for a productive and rewarding year of service. Your dedication and professionalism help our community continue to flourish.