Morro Bay City Manager, Scott Collins announced on April 8 that he is appointing Greg Kwolek to be Morro Bay’s Public Works Director. Mr. Collins selected Greg from a pool of 27 candidates following a comprehensive interview process that included interviews with community members, public works and other city staff, and local government leaders. Mr. Kwolek begins his work with the City team on Monday, May 10th.

“This is a pivotal time in Morro Bay history as we transition to a new water reclamation facility (WRF) and begin assessing and investing in our other infrastructure needs, such as parks, facilities, restrooms, harbor, stormwater and streets,” said City Manager Collins. “Therefore, we need a strong leader and manager to guide these important efforts. I selected Greg to join my executive team and lead Public Works, because I believe he is the right person at the right time to help get these things done. I am excited to see what the already solid Public Works team will accomplish under his leadership.”

Greg Kwolek comes to Morro Bay with over eight years in local government management and leadership experience. Currently, he serves as Division Manager for the City of Pasadena, where he is responsible for critical maintenance projects for the community while also building job skills for unemployed and under-skilled residents. Prior to that, he was the Public Works Management Analyst for the City of La Cañada Flintridge, where he oversaw the capital budget, trails maintenance, and community right-of-way concerns. Greg also served Los Angeles County as their Small Business Services Program Manager.

“I am excited for the opportunity to lead such a fantastic Public Works Department. Public Works has some big tasks and responsibilities ahead, and I look forward to leveraging the Department’s strengths to meet these challenges and make a positive impact in the Morro Bay community. One of my central aims is to collaborate with City staff, City Council, residents and community leaders to ensure our success.”

Mr. Kwolek will oversee the department of 33 full-time employees and 3 part-time employees. The Public Works Department is responsible for water and sewer utilities, consolidated maintenance, environmental services, engineering and contractual oversight of local trash and recycling and transportation services. Key Public Works initiatives include starting the new WRF facility in late 2022, re-initiating the pavement management program, prioritizing other capital needs in the City and finding resources to support those needs. Mr. Kwolek will earn $142,076 per year as Public Works Director.

“Special thanks to the TS Talent Solutions team for their assistance with the Morro Bay Public Works Director recruitment process,” said City Manager Collins. “Their team is easy to work with: fast, smart, and effective.  The talent pool in the recruitment was incredible, and I can’t wait to get to work with Greg!”