Board of Supervisors designates Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week

On Tuesday, Oct. 8, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors officially designated the second week of October as Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week. This recognition highlights the critical role these officers play in maintaining the safety, health and quality of life in our communities.

“As we celebrate Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of our Code Enforcement Officers,” said Code Enforcement Chief Ignacio Nuñez. “Their dedication and professionalism ensure that our communities remain safe and healthy, significantly enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Keep up the great work.”

San Bernardino County’s Code Enforcement Division is made up of over 40 dedicated officers, all committed to making a difference in the community. Senior Code Enforcement Officer Christian Benson, who has served with the division for eight years, shared his perspective on the team’s community focused mission: “Helping people improve their quality of life, whether it’s addressing sewage, removing debris or ensuring the safety of structures, gives me a sense of fulfillment.”

Senior Officer Michelle Sinner has worked in every region of San Bernardino County over the past six years, including the mountains, valley and desert.

“I enjoy what we do in Code Enforcement,” she said. “I love the challenge of handling diverse cases and contributing to the beautification of our communities. It’s rewarding to educate property owners on the importance of our ordinances and why compliance is essential for maintaining safety, and quality of life for everyone.”

The division’s work is closely tied to public safety and community well-being. Senior Code Enforcement Officer Brenda Suarez, a six-year veteran of the division, co-founded the Nuisance Abatement Unit in 2022.

“I enjoy interacting with people, even in challenging situations,” Suarez said. “When you can empathize and relate to someone, you can help them understand that we’re here for the good of everyone. Code Enforcement plays a crucial role in the well-being of our communities.”

The officers’ responsibilities include communicating with the public about the importance of health and safety standards, preserving property values and ensuring community safety. Officer Gabriel Garcia, who started as a temporary employee in 2021, was inspired to become a full-time officer after witnessing the division’s positive impact.

“It’s rewarding to see the improvements when a case is closed,” he said. “The professionalism and integrity of our officers are unparalleled, and this recognition is well deserved.”

Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., expressed his support for the officers, saying, “Working with Code Enforcement has given me a deep appreciation for their role as educators in our community. They guide residents toward maintaining health, safety and quality of life standards. Their work directly impacts neighborhoods, preserving property values and promoting community pride. I am proud to support their efforts in making a tangible difference in the lives of our residents.”

As we celebrate Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week, we recognize the essential work these dedicated professionals do to safeguard our communities, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all in our county.

Additional County Update News – October 10, 2024