Added space in one main building for teams like Building Department
St. Cloud swung open the doors to City Hall for its public grand re-opening Wednesday.
The recently-completed work brought new space to all three floors and connected what was Buildings A and B, two separate buildings before.
“Before this new building was made, Building A and Building B were separate buildings that required visitors know which office they were going to avoid walking back outside to go into another building,” said Director of Communications Maryemma Bachelder.
Wednesday, guests and visitors were greeted at the new front office with goody bags and a pamphlet of the different booths. Food was served, tours were given and games were played with prizes awarded.
Building Permit Technician Christie Cruz welcomed guests as she informed them about the department. Guests were directed to Lead Permit Tech Shay Valdivia, who informed them of the new customer service lobby to the right of the escalator.
“Our clinic tech desks have bullet proof glass from top to bottom,” said Valdivia. “And then you have this nice feature where whenever the techs are on lunch break or not at their desks, they can frost the glass.”
The tour continued the Building Department’s new office space with Permit Technician Jazmin Rosario, who led guests through the office space as she explained that this is where the permits are sent and processed.
“For any questions any contractors, homeowners, or anyone in general can call in and we’ll help them,” said Rosario.
Rosario led guests from the office to behind the customer service desks. She displays the frosted glass feature with the press of a button before leading into the buildings newest conference room.
“Our state of the art conference room seats 30 and the interior of the walls actually use to be the exterior of Buildings A and B,” said Rosario.
From the conference room to the hallway, the Procurement Department and Public Works awaited the newest arrivals. Public Works Director Kevin Felblinger showcased a core that powers the facility.
“We work as the middle between the publics and the departments to make sure everyone gets what they need or want,” said Procurement services William Arce.
After an elevator ride to the third floor, guests were greeted by Economic Development Specialists Raquel Landero and Sotange Dal Santo, who told guests of some small businesses and grants to help the community.
Visitors then could roam the City Council chambers, where a mural hangs depicting city hall before it’s renovation with lines of bronze cars lining up on the sides with two parchments of lettering.
Recruiting Specialist Lillian Rosario and Financial Director Jeff Cooper, after explaining what each of their departments do, offered lists with open positions currently available at City Hall. Rosario said these are bound to change over time and informed the crowd the city just created a new section on its webpage (www.stcloudfl.gov/), which has a lot of information about what the city has to offer.
“The web page is an excellent new addition that we're very proud about because it talks about our pension, the different benefits, and our vacations time,” said Rosario. “It gives people a better idea of what we have to offer.”
