City of Goleta’s beloved Front Desk receptionist Francie Townes is heading into retirement. Her last day at the City was August 1st. She received a City Tile at the July 16 Council meeting recognizing her outstanding service to the City as well as an outpouring of gratitude from Assistant City Manager Jaime Valdez, the Mayor, and Councilmembers. They thanked her for the important role she has played at the City. Staff were in attendance to show their support and cheer Francie on in this special moment.

Jaime Valdez said, “Francie is an amazing person, the first person we see when we walk through the doors. Always kind, always has a smile, a warm gesture, a nice sentiment.”

Mayor Perotte said “Anybody knows that the first person you meet in any business or organization is critical to that organization. And you are the heart of Goleta.”

Francie was moved by all the kind words. “It has been very touching to see the City grow and work with so many amazing and talented people” she said. “It’s been a great privilege to be able to watch the City open its doors and embrace the diversity and include all of the citizens of Goleta.”

Francie first started working with the City of Goleta in 2012 after moving to California from the East Coast to be closer to family. Her background includes different fields ranging from administrative work, education, banking, public relations, administrative work, non-profit organizations, and for the past decade, local government. She began her work with the City of Goleta as a temp before becoming the front desk receptionist.

“My favorite thing about working here” says Francie, “is being able to help someone who has walked in completely lost and having them leave with the knowledge and confidence of where they need to go.”

Francie plans to enjoy her retirement by taking art classes and volunteer as a hospice worker in her free time.

“I want my co-workers to remember one thing,” says Francie, “always take a moment to stop and smile”.

Thank you, Francie, for all you have done for the City of Goleta and our community! We wish you the best of luck as you begin this new chapter.

Francie with Mayor Perotte after receiving her City Tile

Francie with the City Council and her City Tile