My River POV: Sandy West, Human Resources Director

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Last Updated on January 30, 2024

Growing up in Southeast Louisiana, I regularly enjoyed freshwater fishing, casting many lines in the lakes, rivers, and bayous near my home. I recall fond memories of my family catching, cleaning, and cooking white perch, my favorite fish, on the banks of the rivers. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I discovered fishing also had a therapeutic effect. It kept me in the moment — a rare but enjoyable state for me. After an hour or two spent waiting for a bite and failing to set the hook, I realized that I had not thought about anything else for a while.

Sandy West Portrait

Sandy West, SHMR-SPC, Human Resources Director

Growing up in Southeast Louisiana, I regularly enjoyed freshwater fishing, casting many lines in the lakes, rivers, and bayous near my home. I recall fond memories of my family catching, cleaning, and cooking white perch, my favorite fish, on the banks of the rivers. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I discovered fishing also had a therapeutic effect. It kept me in the moment — a rare but enjoyable state for me. After an hour or two spent waiting for a bite and failing to set the hook, I realized that I had not thought about anything else for a while.

A woman prepares her fishing rod

When I accepted the job of Human Resources Director at the River Authority, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my office and my new apartment afforded me a view of the San Antonio River, and I could take daily walks with my puppy, Deuce, along the San Antonio River Walk. Exchanging a 60-minute commute for a less than 10-minute commute was an added perk. I have grown accustomed to not spending 8.5 hours in my car weekly. Instead, I have more time to enjoy beautiful art along the San Antonio River, such as the F.I.S.H art installation and the Grotto, or visit Confluence Park and the Pearl Brewery.

HR Director Sandy West poses with her puppy

In support of the River Authority’s commitment to providing safe, clean, and enjoyable creeks and rivers, I get to lead a group of human resources professionals who support the total operation in meeting goals through its most valuable resource – PEOPLE. The Human Resources Department acts as a catalyst to enable all River Authority employees to participate at optimum levels toward the success of the agency and, ultimately, healthy and sustainable creeks and rivers for the community of the San Antonio River Basin to enjoy.

The Human Resources Department’s mission is to provide the following quality services to the employees of the River Authority:

  • Recruitment of competent individuals
  • Retention of respected employees
  • Training and development to foster individual success and increase overall value to the organization
  • A safe and healthful working environment
  • Motivation and encouragement for high employee morale through recognition, effective communication, and continuous feedback
  • Resources for administering benefits, policies, and procedures
HR Team during disc golf tournament

The Human Resources team plays disc golf at the River Authority’s employee Fall Fun Festival.

We achieve our mission through teamwork inspired by proactive efforts, effective organizational skills, and a balance between professionalism and the ability to have fun! I am proud to be on a team of passionate individuals at the River Authority working together for a worthy cause.

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Alerts

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail Temporarily Closed

Staff have removed two large log jams just downstream of Helton Nature Park, keeping the southern portion of the SASPAMCO Paddling Trail temporarily closed. Staff are working to contact adjacent landowners to support a land-based removal solution.

Stem Density Efforts

Please be advised that trails near the Confluence Park and Conception Park area will be temporarily closed due to ongoing Stem Density efforts. We appreciate your cooperation and ask that you remain mindful of workers and closures when in the vicinity. Thank you for your patience as we work to improve our natural spaces!

 

Gas Spill

The San Antonio River Authority and the City of San Antonio are actively working to contain a recent gas spill in the Downtown River Walk Loop area, which occurred earlier today. The source of the spill is unknown but has stopped. At this time, no environmental impacts have been observed, and teams are implementing measures to fully contain and remove the substance. We will provide updates as the situation develops.

West Bank Trail Closure Notice

Due to the construction of a new trail and bridge, the West Bank of the trail between Schiller St. and Newell St. will be closed for the next couple of months. The East Bank will also be intermittently closed on Monday, November 4th, to install the bridge. Please use caution when navigating around this area. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Please refer to the map for reference. 

San Pedro Creek Culture Park

The restrooms at South Alamo will be temporarily closed for maintenance and repairs. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. 

Acequia Trail Notice

The Acequia trail will have heavy traffic near MROC starting May 22nd until further notice. The SAWS Acequia project will be bringing in crews to work on the lift station site and across the street. There will have flaggers to stop traffic, please use caution. 

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail

The SASPAMCO paddling trail is open from River Crossing Park to Helton Nature Park.
*Please Note: Paddling Trail from Helton Nature Park to HWY 97 is still closed due to blockages. 

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