New city hall ribbon cutting, tours Tuesday

Rose Hoffman, communications director for the City of Willow Park, was almost giddy as she proclaimed with a laugh, “I have a door!”

Hoffman and the rest of the city staff all now have that and much more as they are settled into the new city hall at 120 El Chico Tr., just off Interstate 20. The city signed a 30-month lease on the approximately 8,700 square feet of space — almost triple the 3,189 they vacated on Jan. 1, their home for many years.

“It has been a struggle for many years at the old facility to do business and effectively serve our community,” Hoffman continued. “This new space gives us the tools we need to be at our best. We’re grateful to Mayor Doyle Moss and the city council for it to happen for us.”

And though they’ve actually been doing business in their new digs, which was formerly the home of T.G. Mercer Consulting Services, since Jan. 17, an official ribbon cutting with the East Parker Chamber of Commerce is set for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14. After that, tours will be conducted for those who want an up-close look.

Then, later in the day before the council meeting, tours will be conducted from 4:30-6 p.m., with council meeting at 6.

“Everybody’s moved in and happy,” Moss said, reiterating what Hoffman said, “Everybody has an office with a door. It was way overdue.”

In the old facility, things were crowded and space was at a premium. Spaces had to be shared and even holding a private conversation often required stepping outside.

“Inadequate office space, lack of privacy for meetings and phone calls and an antiquated building were just some of the challenges,” Hoffman said.

“Our hope is our new facilities will be a source of pride to the community as we strive to continue to serve this community in a professional manner,” City Manager Bryan Grimes said. “You don’t have people sharing offices anymore. You can focus on your job function. It’s better when you’re not sharing space.

“I’m very thankful and grateful to the City of Willow Park, mayor and council for providing us with a first-class professional work environment.”