After a few months of searching the San Benito County Board of
Supervisors today appointed a new director of planning and
building.
After a few months of searching the San Benito County Board of Supervisors today appointed a new director of planning and building.
Gary Armstrong was approved in a unanimous decision by the board after a short introduction by Director of Internal Services Rich Inman. Armstrong is set to begin work Monday, August 9.
Inman noted how Armstrong will continue the county’s pursuit of trying to streamline its permitting process.
The new director graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a bachelor of arts in environmental studies and environmental biology. He also is certified in light construction and development management from the University of California, Irvine. Anderson is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners.
He has more than 30 years of planning experience, county documents state.
Armstrong received praise from Supervisor Margie Barrios, who called Armstrong a welcome addition to the county.
Armstrong will replace Interim Director Cathy Woodbury, who was appointed to the position in late April after former Director Art Henriques retired. Henriques served under the position for four years before he stepped down.
Armstrong’s annual salary will be $152,592 per year before the county’s mandatory 5 percent work furlough takes effect. He will also receive a $500 monthly car allowance and 120 hours of administrative leave.
He will get all other benefits given to government department heads, such as health benefits.
The county contracted the services of Bob Murray and Associates to recruit and fill the position. The county had been searching since February when Henriques announced his retirement.
Armstrong was not present at the meeting because he was busy trying to sell his home in Newport Beach, Inman said after Barrios had asked.
