As Lathrop’s city clerk, Teresa Vargas is the voice that residents recognize during council meetings recording the roll call votes as well as reading agenda items and ordinances as they come up.

But what they don’t see is the tireless hours that Vargas puts in helping ensure that Lathrop is operating as effectively and efficiently as possible – in addition to all of the hours that she has accumulated seeking the various certifications necessary for her role.

And now Vargas has earned the highest certification possible for those serving in that capacity.

Vargas, who has been with the City of Lathrop for 16 years, recently earned her Master Municipal Clerk certification from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks – available only to those that have completed “demanding educational requirements and who have a record of significant contributions to their local government, their community and state.

In the eyes of Lathrop City Manager Steve Salvatore, Vargas is emblematic of what has made the city a great place to live.

“The City of Lathrop strives each day to provide the residents with the highest quality of municipal services possible. The City cherishes its well-earned reputation for fiscal stewardship, its inventory of high-quality recreational facilities, and perhaps most importantly, our small but hard-working team of civil servants,” Salvatore said. “There could not be a better example of an exemplary City Clerk than Teresa Vargas, MMC.

“We are very fortunate to have her here in Lathrop and the City is a demonstratively better place to live and work as a result of her efforts.”

The organization that provides the certification that Vargas received – The International Institute of Municipal Clerks – was founded in 1947 and has 14,000 members throughout the United States, Canada, and 15 other counties. The IIMC exists, according to its mission statement, to “enhance the educational opportunities and professional development” of its members.

“In light of the speed and drastic nature of change these days, lifelong learning is not only desirable, it is necessary for all in local government to keep pace with the growing demands and changing needs of the citizens we serve,” the International Institute of Municipal Clerks wrote in a release announcing Vargas’ accomplishment. “Your city can take immense pride in Teresa’s educational accomplishments and achievement of this milestone.”

To contact reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.