Mitch began his career with the City of Baytown in 1990 as a Parks Caretaker, hired by Scott Johnson. Previously, he worked as a golf course Groundskeeper in La Porte but was eager to pursue his passion for trees at the Parks and Rec Tree Farm. He later moved into horticultural maintenance, was promoted to Equipment Operator, and gained experience on the Streets Crew before becoming a Crew Leader and Heavy Equipment Specialist. Today, Mitch oversees North Side parks, particularly Jenkins Park, where he takes pride in its upkeep.
Mitch has always enjoyed grounds maintenance, beautification, and especially tree planting. Known for his dedication, he ensures no potted tree remains unplanted for long. He also helped develop the Cary Bayou trail at Jenkins Park to improve safety. In his early years, he competed in the annual Maintenance Rodeo, winning several awards before retiring to let others have a chance.
His love for nature was nurtured growing up on St. Croix and St. Kitts, where he gathered vegetables with his grandmother remembering being able to watch the beautiful sunrise over the mountains. Moving to Texas at 15, he was shocked by the lack of greenery but graduated from La Porte High School in 1981. He married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn, and they have two children, Eric and Shenia. He’s still patiently waiting on grandkids!
Mitch loves his work and says he’d stay another 100 years if he could. But if he wins the lotto, he’d travel to places with big trees, mountains, and beautiful landscapes. Until then, Baytown is lucky to have him and grateful for his dedication. Mitch, your commitment to Baytown beautification runs as deep as the roots of the many trees you maintain – thank you for 35 years of service.