The City of Brownwood recognized five employees during the City Council meeting this morning for their outstanding commitment to public service and embodiment of the organization’s core values.
The honorees were selected as the 2025 ISERVE Core Value Award recipients during the annual ISERVE Conference, held on October 13, 2025, at the Brownwood Event Center. The ISERVE Awards honor City employees who consistently demonstrate the organization’s six core values – Integrity, Service, Excellence, Respect, Vision, and Empathy. These values represent the foundation of the City’s culture and guide the actions of employees in serving the Brownwood community.
This year’s award recipients are Dave Thomas, Kenneth Perkovich, Lance Wells, Michael Blanton, and Jesse Mares. Each honoree was nominated by their peers and supervisors for exemplifying the City’s values in their daily work and interactions with team members and citizens.
Dave Thomas
Dave Thomas began his career with the City of Brownwood in 2002 and currently serves as a Firefighter-10. He was recognized for consistently demonstrating respect and empathy in his interactions with coworkers and community members. Known for his initiative, positive attitude, and willingness to assist others, Thomas is regarded as a trusted and compassionate team member whose leadership contributes to a supportive workplace environment.
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Kenneth Perkovich
Since joining the City in 2015, Kenneth Perkovich has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to service and professional development within the Utility Department. Starting as a water meter reader, he has earned his CDL, obtained his Class C Water License, and advanced to the position of Utility Operator II. Perkovich is recognized for his reliability, teamwork, and strong customer service.
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Lance Wells
Lance Wells joined the City of Brownwood in 2022 and serves as a Code Compliance/Building Inspector in the Code Enforcement and Planning & Development Department. He was recognized for his commitment to public service and his collaborative approach to addressing community needs. Wells is known for his fairness, problem-solving abilities, and professionalism in working with property owners and team members.
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Michael Blanton
Michael Blanton began his career with the City in 2008 and currently serves as a Street Maintenance Tech III in the Street Department. He was honored for his pursuit of excellence and dedication to maintaining high-quality standards in his work. Blanton is recognized for his expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and to the satisfaction of residents.
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Jesse Mares
Patrol Sergeant Jesse Mares joined the Brownwood Police Department in 2011 and has served in multiple roles, including Field Training Officer, Patrol Corporal, and Commander of the Brownwood PD/Brown County SWAT. Mares was recognized for exemplifying integrity through his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards in law enforcement. He is respected among his peers for his dedication to public safety and his example of principled service.
The ISERVE Awards are presented annually during the City’s all-employee conference, which provides an opportunity for professional development, recognition, and team engagement.
For more information about the ISERVE Core Value Awards, visit www.brownwoodtexas.gov/ISERVE.