Gerry Newcombe, who was previously serving in the capacity of deputy county executive officer, has been transferred into the position of county public works director.
Newcombe replaces Granville “Bow” Bowman, who has retired.
“Gerry has tackled many difficult assignments during his time as an executive with the county. Public works is one of the county’s most complex and challenging departments, and I am confident it will be in good hands with Gerry at the helm,” said county chief executive officer Greg Devereaux, who appointed Mr. Newcombe to the position.
As public works director, Newcombe will oversee the  department’s  transportation, flood control, solid waste, and surveying divisions. The department’s responsibilities are to maintain county roads, administer special transportation projects, manage surveyor functions, provide administrative oversights for the operation and management of the county’s solid waste system, and maintain an extensive system of flood control and water conservation facilities.
“I’ve gotten to know many of the excellent staff at public works over the years and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with them all. I appreciate Greg’s confidence in me and I’m anxious to get started,” Newcombe said.
Newcombe has been with the county for more than 30 years, most recently in the dual role of deputy executive officer and manager of the department of public works solid waste management division. As deputy executive officer, Newcombe has been responsible for managing the oversight of renewable energy projects in the county, working with cities on the possible regionalization of animal control, and overseeing several major capital projects, including the $150 million expansion of the jail system.
At one time, Newcombe also simultaneously oversaw five county departments, including land use, real estate services, architecture & engineering, fleet management, and facilities management.