Celebrating Tampa’s Unsung Heroes: A Day of Appreciation for the City’s Solid Waste & Environmental Management Team

City of Tampa Solid Waste & Environmental Management Department employees and their families on the dance floor at their recognition celebration.

In every city, there are teams that work behind the scenes to keep things moving—the crews who show up early, stay late, and handle the tough jobs that most people don’t notice. In Tampa, one of those essential groups is the City of Tampa Solid Waste & Environmental Management Department.

Recently, I had the privilege of being part of their employee appreciation event, a day dedicated to recognizing the hardworking individuals who help keep the city clean, organized, and operating smoothly. From sanitation services to environmental stewardship, this team plays a vital role in the everyday quality of life for Tampa residents.

A Celebration with Purpose

This wasn’t your average company cookout. It was a full-blown celebration filled with energy, music, food, fun, and a sense of gratitude that you could feel in the air. These employees weren’t working that day—they were being celebrated.

Whether they were catching up with coworkers, enjoying the entertainment, or just relaxing in the Florida sun, it was clear that the time and effort put into this event made an impact.

Leadership That Shows Up

Darnell from 3sixty Entertainment, LLC posing with Mayor Jane Castor.

Among the many highlights of the day was the presence of Mayor Jane Castor and Larry Washington, Director of Solid Waste & Environmental Management. Both took the time to be on-site, personally engaging with staff and showing genuine appreciation.

That kind of leadership matters. When city officials show up not just to speak, but to connect, it sends a powerful message: your work is seen, and it’s valued.

Our Role at 3sixty Entertainment

At 3sixty Entertainment, LLC, I was honored to contribute to the experience. While I typically let the fun do the talking, being part of a city-hosted event like this—especially one focused on appreciation—adds a deeper meaning to what I do.

When people are recognized for their hard work, the atmosphere changes. You can see it in their smiles, hear it in their laughter, and feel it in the energy of the crowd. My job is to help enhance that energy and create a space where people can enjoy the moment.

A Reminder of Why It Matters

Events like this are more than just a break from the routine. They remind people that what they do matters—and that the community sees them. It was a joy to be part of something that honored real people doing real work.

To the entire team at the City of Tampa Solid Waste & Environmental Management Department: thank you for everything you do. You deserved every bit of this celebration.