In the heart of San Antonio's city hall, a moment of reflection and gratitude unfolded as the City Council convened for its final business meeting with Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as colleagues and community members gathered to honor her six years of dedicated service to District 4 and the city at large.

City Manager Eric Walsh opened the meeting by highlighting the city's impressive financial achievements, noting a $4 billion annual budget and the critical role of the finance department in maintaining transparency and accountability. He expressed gratitude to the finance team for their hard work, which has garnered recognition from rating agencies and the public alike.

As the meeting progressed, the council celebrated the annual City Manager's Excellence Award program, recognizing employees who exemplified teamwork and innovation. A video showcased the collaborative efforts of the Human Resources and Parks and Recreation departments in filling essential summer positions, ensuring that community programs, including lifeguard services, would be fully staffed.

However, the spotlight soon shifted to Councilwoman Rocha Garcia, whose impending departure from the council prompted heartfelt tributes from her colleagues. Each council member took turns sharing personal anecdotes and expressing their admiration for her leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the community. They praised her preparedness, intelligence, and the significant impact she made on various initiatives, particularly in housing and public health.

Leah Rosenhauer, president and CEO of Girls Inc. of San Antonio, also took the podium to commend Rocha Garcia's contributions to women's empowerment and community service. The councilwoman's legacy, marked by her advocacy for the South Side and her collaborative spirit, resonated deeply with those present.

In her farewell address, Rocha Garcia expressed her gratitude to the residents of District 4, her colleagues, and the many community partners who supported her work. She emphasized the importance of continued engagement between elected officials and the community, urging everyone to remain involved in local governance.

As the meeting concluded, the council's camaraderie and shared commitment to San Antonio's future were palpable. With Rocha Garcia's departure, a new chapter begins for District 4, but her influence and dedication will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the city.