The county of Ventura has named Gregg Strakaluse as the new director for the Ventura County Public Works Agency. He was selected following a recruitment process that included both internal and external candidates.

Strakaluse assumes the position following the retirement of former director Jeff Pratt in March.
 
“”Gregg’s distinguished engineering background, complemented by his profound skillset across all facets of public works and specialized disaster response experience, ensures seamless service continuity,” said Sevet Johnson, county executive officer.

“His appointment reinforces our commitment to advancing from a robust foundation, poised for sustained growth and excellence across our Public Works Agency. Gregg’s wealth of expertise promises to continue to elevate the level of quality service to our residents throughout the county,” Johnson said.
 
Strakaluse, originally from Rhode Island, holds a bachelor of science degree in engineering from the University of Rhode Island. He is a licensed civil engineer in California and Florida.

Having worked in the public sector since 1990, Strakaluse has experience at the municipal level in various positions across several states. Most recently, he served as the public works director for Bakersfield, California.
 
“I’m honored and excited to lead the Ventura County Public Works Agency and continue the important work providing well-maintained infrastructure and high-quality services to the community,” Strakaluse said.

“I look forward to working with the department’s dedicated, hardworking staff, the County Executive Office, the Board of Supervisors, and many agency partners to accomplish great things for residents, businesses, and visitors of this wonderful county.”

Strakaluse will assume his duties July 29 at an annual salary of $279.922.