San Benito County has hired an interim public works director with ample public-sector credentials in San Jose.
County supervisors this week agreed to hire former San Jose Planning Director Joe Horwedel to take on on the role of interim public works director here. He replaces former Public Works Director Steve Wittry, who departed in April.
The county hired Horwedel – who brings nearly a quarter-century of municipal experience – through Interwest Consulting Group.
That agreement is set to include pay of up to $130 per hour for up to 40 hours weekly. The deal has the potential of lasting through June 2015, according to the contract. The county must give notice of at least 30 days if it chooses to cancel the agreement before June 30 of next year.
Aside from vast experience in planning, Horwedel has held other City of San Jose leadership roles in code enforcement and city management.
As Horwedel takes on the role, the county will continue the process of recruiting a permanent director. County officials are awaiting the completion of an “organizational study” being conducted by Optimal Advisors before moving ahead with the recruitment.
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