Parkland board and residents honor longtime clerk and planner Jean Panabianco

Board members, staff and residents used the March 12 Parkland Planning & Zoning Board meeting to recognize Jean Panabianco as she retires after 14 years with the city.

A colleague who said he first met Jean on his first day as a city engineer recounted being greeted by her and praised her "enthusiasm, her positive attitude and obviously her level of care." The colleague presented a service award reading: "service award presented to Jean Panabianco in grateful recognition and appreciation for 14 years of outstanding service and dedication to the City of Parkland and the Parkland residents."

Several staff members joined remotely to deliver remarks. Michelle (joining by Teams) said, "retirement is greatly underrated. You will have a blast, and I wish you all the best." Another remote colleague, Jeff, offered congratulations and said, "You earned it. Parkland is going to miss you."

Vice Chair Tony Avello praised Jean's behind‑the‑scenes role as clerk and planner and said her "professionalism, organization, and deep knowledge helped keep this board functioning smoothly meeting after meeting." Resident Bob Mayerson (who gave his address on the record) also thanked Jean for her service and recalled working with her when he served on P&Z and as a commissioner.

Board members told Jean she would be missed and wished her well as she begins retirement. The meeting later recessed and members indicated they hoped to hear from Jean before the final adjournment.

The recognition was purely ceremonial; no board action was taken related to staffing.