The City of Poway is proud to announce the appointment of Mike Obermiller to the position of Public Works director. Obermiller started with the city in August 2014 as the department’s assistant director. During his tenure, he served as the city’s liaison with several regional groups including the Metro Wastewater Joint Powers Authority and San Diego County Water Authority.
Prior to joining the city, Obermiller served 20 years in the US Navy as a Civil Engineer Corps Officer, leading comprehensive public works and construction management organizations in Japan, Iraq, Mississippi and California. He directed a $600 million program budget with management of facilities planning, maintenance, custodial/grounds services, construction, utilities, real estate actions and transportation operations of 10 Navy bases throughout California and Nevada.
“Giving Mike the opportunity to serve as the Public Works director was an easy decision,” said City Manager Tina White. “He is an enthusiastic public servant and dedicated to serving the residents of Poway. Mike leads by example and brings a positive attitude to work each day.”
Obermiller will lead a department of 85 full-time employees and an annual FY 2016-17 operating budget of $41.18 million. The Poway Public Works department is organized across three divisions: Utility Systems Operations and Maintenance, Maintenance Operations, and Environmental Programs. Public Works employees are responsible for ensuring the reliable operation and maintenance of public infrastructure, including:
- Compliance with State and Federal regulations for water treatment, water distribution, wastewater, reclaimed water, storm water, flood control, solid waste and household hazardous waste, and fleet operations;
- Maintaining public facilities, streets, medians, sidewalks and signage;
- Caring for parks, trails and open space;
- The functioning of traffic signals and street lights; and
- Administration of special districts.
“I am very grateful to the City of Poway for this opportunity,” said Obermiller. “It is a privilege to continue serving the residents, and I look forward to leading our Public Works team in this capacity.”