Employee Service Recognitions

Staff Report & Agenda Item Details

Linda Whitaker - 25 years Linda was hired as a Senior Staff Secretary on October 30, 2000. She was promoted to an Administrative Assistant on July 16, 2001 then to an Executive Assistant on March 11, 2013. On August 17, 2019, her title changed to Senior Agenda Management Coordinator, which is the position she currently holds. Linda is a key member of the executive department team and provides reliable support for the Board Meeting agenda processes. She takes pride in the agenda process with a keen attention to detail and strives to deliver a smooth agenda preparation process and a high-quality agenda product every month. Last year, the San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) had to migrate to a new Agneda Management system. Linda was a member of the evaluation team that recommended the new system. In addition, she also served as a member of the implementation team that evaluated, tested, and configured the new system. The system went live in support of the July Board Meetings. Since then, she has assisted IT in training to River Authority staff on crafting agenda items. She incorporates the mission of the River Authority in her decision making and ensures that we make decisions which align with our vision. Thank you, Linda, for your diligence, your professionalism and your supportive manner. You make the River Authority a better place each and every day! Xavier Maldonado - 25 years Xavier has been a part of the River Authority team for over 25 years, with the Engineering Department the entire time. He started on October 9, 2000, as an Engineering CADD technician. In 2013, Xavier made the jump to construction inspection as an Inspector I and was promoted to Inspector II in 2018. On October 4, 2025, he was promoted to Inspector III, which is the position he currently holds. Throughout his career, Xavier has always had a positive attitude and disposition. He has always been a true team player and has risen to the challenge to work on a variety of projects, including (to name a few) the Martinez IV Treatment Plant, Project 29, Salatrillo Reuse Project, San Pedro Creek, Confluence Park and Staircase, Helton Trails, and Confluence Park. More recently, Xavier worked on the recently opened Escondido Park Project in Kenedy. Xavier has also assisted Watershed and Park Operations and Utilities on numerous projects and efforts during his tenure here at the River Authority. He is a long-time member of the activities committee and a one-time department BBQ cook. Xavier balances his work life by spending time with his family, and he loves to hunt and fish whenever possible. When asked what he liked best about the River Authority, Xavier said it is the people he works with. He enjoys and appreciates being here every day and feels blessed to work with a great team. We feel blessed to have Xavier in the Watershed Engineering group and appreciate his many contributions.