LAKEWOOD RANCH -- During her first year as the Lakewood Ranch Inter-District Authority Executive Director, Eva Rey has made notable improvements in Town Hall operations.

Rey has set the tone for more openness in town hall operations, and providing service with a smile for residents and others.

Lakewood Ranch community development districts and homeowner associations now have a functioning website where residents and officials can access community information and download agendas and other information for district meetings.

New resident orientation meetings have become a monthly event.

"It's about being responsive to the community and it's driven by expectations of the residents," Rey said.

Hired last August by the Inter-District Authority, Rey is the final signature regarding Lakewood Ranch's maintenance department, finance department and

homeowner association operations. She also ensures that community developments, association and the IDA are compliant with local and state laws.

"The most notable improvement is in customer service and relationships," said Tom Green, chairman of the IDA. "I think she's done an excellent job of working externally. She's done a good job with relations with community association and Schroeder-Manatee Ranch."

A varied resume has allows her to perform multiple tasks and oversee Lakewood Ranch's $12 million annual budget. Rey has worked for community development districts in other parts of Florida, written specifications for construction and software packages and also worked for the Florida Department of Children and Families.

"I'm passionate about local government and that's why I changed my career path," she said. "When I was with Marion County (commissioners office), I really got a taste of what it's like to improve the quality of life of your neighbors. You can help residents you see everyday."

Rey hopes to continue improving resident relations and the government's website. The IDA is currently financing a $2.2 million maintenance facility, which will better allow the operations staff to perform in-house tasks.

Green said Rey has surpassed the IDA's expectations.

"There have been significant improvements since she came," he said.

"I can't imagine doing anything else," Rey said.

Nick Williams, East Manatee reporter, can be reached at 941-748-0411 ext. 7049. Twitter:@_1NickWilliams