Palmdale Assistant City Manager Receives Prestigious APWA Award

PALMDALE, CA - The City of Palmdale is proud to announce that Assistant City Manager Salvador Mendez has been honored as the 2024 Top Leader of the Year in the Public Sector by the Southern California Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA).

Eligibility for this award is based on career accomplishments in public works and being active in supporting APWA. This honor is reserved for those who inspire excellence and dedication to public service.

"Achievements like this are not accomplished in silos; they are the result of collaboration and teamwork with both internal staff and contractors," said Mendez. "I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me on this journey."

Mendez, who has over a decade of experience in the public sector and has served as Palmdale's Assistant City Manager for just over a year, plays a key role in driving the City's efforts to improve public infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for residents. His leadership extends across a wide range of initiatives, including overseeing critical public works projects, managing City services and ensuring that growth is both sustainable and community-driven.

In 2024, Palmdale made significant strides in a wide variety of areas. The City revamped its graffiti abatement program, advanced critical infrastructure projects that brought new jobs, enhanced street sweeping and held community workshops on organic waste recycling. Additionally, Palmdale secured a $5.3 million grant for the 20th Street East Corridor Improvement Project, progressed on the Palmdale Blvd. and SR-14 Interchange Improvement Project, acquired a new graffiti removal truck, advanced the Sam Yellen Park expansion and obtained funding for EV charging infrastructure and innovative transportation solutions. All of this was accomplished by the remarkable City staff under the leadership of the City Manager's office.

The City is confident that Mendez will continue to serve with excellence, making a lasting impact on Palmdale's long-term growth and development. For more information on the City, visit www.CityOfPalmdaleCA.gov.

About the American Public Works Association

The American Public Works Association has a global reputation in public works, with a membership of over 30,000 professionals dedicated to providing high-quality public infrastructure and services. APWA's mission is to promote growth and professionalism in the public works field through education, advocacy and networking. To learn more about the APWA, visit www.apwa.org.