Ventura County Public Works Agency Announces Two New Department Directors

VENTURA, Calif. - July 27, 2023 - PRLog -- Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) recently announced two new Department Directors, both through internal promotions: Anitha Balan has been appointed to Director of Roads & Transportation, and Jim O' Tousa to Director of Engineering Services.

As Director of Roads & Transportation, Balan oversees the planning, designing, funding, building, operating, and maintaining the County Road System, bridges, drainage, and related transportation facilities, coordination of unincorporated area public transit needs, and provision of general transportation advice to the Board of Supervisors.

"I have truly enjoyed my journey with PWA & look forward to dedicating the rest of my career to bringing innovation & excellence within the agency.  I have a great team that supports me & the agency's mission to provide excellent service to the residents we serve," said Balan.

Balan has been with VCPWA for 23 years in a career marked by continuous growth and recognition. Balan has a Bachelor's and a Master's Degree in Civil Engineering and is a registered Civil Engineer in the State of California.

"We are thrilled that Anitha accepted the Director of Roads & Transportation (R&T) position. Her vast knowledge and expertise in R&T and her unwavering commitment to VCPWA and our Ventura County community ensure that she will successfully steer Roads & Transportation into the future." said David Fleisch, Assistant Director of Ventura County Public Works Agency.

Jim O'Tousa was promoted to Director of Engineering Services and will oversee various engineering services to clients within the County of Ventura organization and the public. Services include the capital program and project management, facilities contracting, land development, land surveying, and surveyor support.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented and motivated team within the Public Works Agency as well as the entire County of Ventura family," said O'Tousa. "I am feeling very blessed and excited for this new opportunity".

O'Tousa has been an integral part of Engineering Services for an impressive span of 18 years. His journey with VCPWA began in 2005 as an Engineering Geologist (Engineering Manager I), contributing his expertise to the Land Development Services.

O'Tousa boasts an impressive educational background, holding both Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Geology and a Master's of Business Administration. Moreover, he is a distinguished California registered Professional Geologist and Certified Engineering Geologist. His commitment to his profession extends beyond his work, as he generously serves as a subject matter expert for the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.

"This was a well-deserved promotion for Jim, with an exemplary record in Engineering Services and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of VC residents; Jim will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in driving PWA's mission to greater heights," said Jeff Pratt, Public Works Agency Director.