Lompoc has appointed Charles “C.J.” Berry as the city’s new utility director.
Berry, who most recently served as the manager of distribution services and maintenance operations for the Imperial Irrigation District, started in the role on Jan. 4 following a nationwide recruitment. His appointment follows the retirement of utility director Brad Wilkie in December, and the subsequent service of interim utility director George Morrow through December.
The utility director oversees Lompoc utilities including water, wastewater, electricity, refuse and recycling, the Lompoc Landfill, and a broadband network with Wi-Fi connections for internet access.
Berry said he is excited to join a dedicated group of Lompoc professionals who take pride in providing excellent service to the Lompoc community, even during a trying time.
“Where there are challenges ahead for the city of Lompoc, there are opportunities for success and innovation,” Berry said. “Under the guidance of the Lompoc City Council and the leadership of the city manager, Lompoc is poised to meet these challenges head-on.
“I am looking forward to working with the City Council and city administrators to position our utilities to enhance rate stability, foster and support a culture of safety, optimize operations, and leverage opportunities that enhance the quality of life for our community.”
“We are pleased to welcome C.J. Berry to this important role managing our city of Lompoc utilities. His extensive experience and education, combined with his passion for public service, will be tremendous assets to Lompoc,” said Lompoc City Manager Jim Throop.
The experience Berry brings to the position includes having managed public utilities in Truckee and Lodi in addition to Imperial, as well as having been a utility designer and utility engineering designer in Sacramento and Washington State.
Berry’s education includes a doctorate with emphasis in engineering and technology management from Northcentral University in San Diego; masters degree in management and leadership and an MBA in business, both from Western Governors University, in Salt Lake City; bachelor of science in management from University of Phoenix in Arizona; and associate’s degree in mathematics from Sacramento City College.