EL PASO, Texas — The City of El Paso is pleased to announce the appointment of Ramon Herrera as the Interim Director of El Paso Animal Services. Herrera will begin his new role as Paula Powell, the Animal Services Director retires.

“We are appreciative to Paula Powell for her more than 26 years of services and her devotion to her community that resulted in lasting impacts in both Parks and Recreation and Animal Services,” said City Manager Tommy Gonzalez. “Although we are sad to see her leave her position with the City, Paula will be joining Best Friends Animal Society as the South Central Regional Manager where she will continue to serve the El Paso community. We wish her the best in her new position.”

“Ms. Powell served each one of her departments to her fullest to ensure the citizens of El Paso received the high-quality services and amenities they deserve,” said Deputy City Manager Dionne Mack. “We are also thrilled to capitalize on our own internal talent and excited to offer a great opportunity to El Paso native Ramon Herrera.”

Herrera has served the City for nearly a decade in various key roles, most notably as a member of the Shelter Reform Taskforce that implemented departmental changes leading to Animal Services’ success since 2017. As Marketing and Public Engagement Manager and a member of the Taskforce, his leadership has resulted in increased adoptions, reduction in disease exposure, and enhanced community engagement.

“Through a systematic and strategic approach we have identified and cultivated new leaders among our organization in recent years,” said Managing Director and Fire Chief Mario D’Agostino, who oversees the Animal Services Department. “Ramon has been a vital piece to Animal Services’ success and I’m confident he will continue to lead our community toward our lifesaving goal.” 

Herrera has a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Texas State University, a certification in Animal Shelter Management from the University of the Pacific, and has been selected for the Executive Leadership Certification Program from Southern Utah University and the Best Friends Animal Society.  

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