Derek Mebane
Solid Waste Management

Derek Mebane finds answers for the problems he sees in the neighborhoods before citizens call them in as complaints.

Since moving into the code and contract compliance division in 1999, Mr. Mebane has worked in a host of neighborhoods.
These neighborhood associations have recognized him for:

• keeping their neighborhoods clean,
• following up violation complaints, and
• going to civic club meetings at night, after he gets off work.

He finds answers for the problems he sees in the neighborhoods before citizens call them in as complaints. Also, his organizational skills have made code enforcement sweeps more effective and productive.

When the city’s collections contract changed, Mr. Mebane turned what could have been a very bumpy ride into a smooth one, using teamwork and leadership to coordinate the changes.
He received kudos for his:

• cheerfulness,
• can-do attitude,
• problem solving skills, and
• for working from dawn till dusk during the week and on weekends.

When he’s not at work, Mr. Mebane volunteers as a fundraiser and school liaison in the Parent Awareness Network.

He has served as the network’s treasurer and on its board of directors. He helps single parents develop working relationships with their children’s schools and identify local resources that will help them resolve family problems.

For all he does in making Houston a better place to live, we present Derek Mebane with the Bravo Award.