Former San Marcos Deputy Mayor Sharon Jenkins was presented the San Marcos Inspiration, Leadership and Excellence Award by Councilmember Maria Nuñez at Sept. 9’s City Council meeting.
The SMILE award recognizes individuals and organizations who exemplify leadership, service and commitment to enhancing the San Marcos community. Jenkins is the 24th recipient of the award — and the first to both present and receive it — since the award program was launched during her 12 years serving on the City Council.
Jenkins played a key role helping to lead the campaign for the San Marcos Unified School District’s first facilities bond. She went on to run for the school board and served for 14 years on the San Marcos Unified School District Board of Trustees, followed by 12 years on the San Marcos City Council.
Last year, when the city faced a gap between revenue and expenditures and looming budget cuts, Jenkins led Measure Q, the city’s 1-cent sales tax measure. Last November, San Marcos residents voted to approve Measure Q, which will go toward maintaining and improving its emergency response capabilities, take care of roads and storm drains, and other facilities management.
“Building a coalition of key individuals and stakeholders representing almost every facet of the city, who championed Measure Q, was key to its success,” Nuñez said. “Sharon united the broad-based coalition behind Measure Q and was the champion who led this historic effort. Her dedication to service and life-long relationships in the community made it possible to unite diverse interests and to harness the shared trust and love of our city.”
Jenkins attributes the support to the love people have for San Marcos, the confidence they had in knowing the volunteers, and the trust they had in the city to use their taxpayers’ dollars wisely.
“Even though San Marcos looks a lot different than it did 30 years ago, the relationships and connections in the community keep us close to our roots with a focus to do what’s best for San Marcos,” Jenkins said. “It is an honor to accept this award on behalf of all the Q volunteers who spent countless hours coming together to protect and enhance the quality of life in San Marcos.”
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