Oakland City Administrator Ed Reiskin announced today the appointment of G. Harold Duffey as the new Oakland Public Works Director effective July 26, 2021.
“After a robust national recruitment process, I am delighted to welcome Harold to the Oakland team,” said City Administrator Reiskin. “He brings extensive experience and knowledge of local government operations that will certainly guide his work in leading Oakland Public Works as it delivers critical services to our communities and other City departments.”
Mr. Duffey has over 30 years of experience working for cities and counties throughout California. His extensive tenure includes serving as chief executive officer for the cities of Grand Terrace, Compton, and Oroville. Mr. Duffey’s Public Works experience extends to Yolo County, the City of Sacramento, the City of Riverside, and San Bernardino County.
"I'm very excited to be joining the City of Oakland’s Executive Team,” said G. Harold Duffey. “The men and women of the Public Works Department deliver quality services to residents that support and enhance the quality of life in the community. Oakland is a great community and the recent actions to provide additional financial support to further expand services shows a commitment to maintaining, expanding, and delivering quality services. My commitment to City staff is to ensure employees are trained, provided clear direction, given the tools needed to accomplish a job, and acknowledged for a job well done.”
Mr. Duffey holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Redlands and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from University California San Bernardino.
The City extends deep gratitude to David Ferguson, who has been serving as Interim Director of the department for the past year. His dedicated service and steady leadership have been indispensable in guiding the department during a challenging period for our city. Thanks also to the women and men of the department for their continued outstanding service to the people of Oakland.
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