Jesus “Chuy” Favela began his journey with the City of Baytown on June 1st, 1990 — starting out as a part-time employee in the Parks and Recreation Department, helping maintain and mow the city’s parks.
Just a few months later, in October of that same year, Chuy joined the City full time as a Meter Reader for Utility Billing. In that role, he got to know every street in Baytown — meeting all kinds of people, dodging a few determined dogs, and even navigating some tense moments when residents weren’t too happy about their water being turned off.
In 1999, Chuy transferred to Public Works to join the asphalt crew. He worked hard alongside the team, and by 2000 he was operating his own asphalt truck — patching potholes and repairing streets across Baytown, helping keep the city running smoothly.
By 2004, Chuy had been promoted to Grade Chief, where he installed drainage systems, driveways, and ditches — and occasionally crossed paths with some interesting underground neighbors, from spiders to snakes to raccoons. During Hurricanes Rita and Ike, Chuy and his crew played a critical role clearing debris and keeping our streets and drainage systems open.
In 2010, Chuy stepped up as Acting Foreman of Drainage and officially took the position in 2011. Leading a team of sixteen employees brought new challenges, but also great rewards. His dedication to learning — through leadership classes and the University of Houston’s Certified Public Manager program — helped shape him into the respected leader he is today.
Outside of work, Chuy enjoys time with his family, attending car shows, and working on his lowrider cars. He and his wife, Dalila, have been married for eighteen years and are proud parents to three daughters — Rocio, Olivia, and Arcila.
From mowing parks as a teenager to leading one of the City’s key operations, Chuy’s thirty-five years of service reflect the heart, dedication, and pride that make Baytown what it is today.