Public Works Director Larry Heath heads the Public Works Department. It includes general maintenance, parks maintenance and development, solid waste and recycling. Maintenance Supervisor Bob Hirter oversees the daily care of public property including roads and streets, public buildings, street lights, traffic signs and traffic lights in the downtown area. The Solid Waste and Recycling Division is in charge of picking up garbage, yard waste and recycling. Garbage is picked up twice a week. Yard waste and recyclables are collected once a week. The division is directed by Debra Gardow. Parks Supervisor Gayland Drake works cooperatively with the Sarasota County Parks and Recreation Division to maintain many lovely parks, recreational sports areas as well as beaches. City parks are overseen by Parks Supervisor Gayland Drake.