In conjunction with the upcoming retirement of their Development Services Division director, the City of Lancaster has restructured Development Services into separate divisions—Public Works and Community Development. The switch, which officially went into effect on March 14, is aimed to allow the City to better focus on the unique needs of each division and enhance Lancaster’s overall efficiency and effectiveness.
“I want to take a moment to thank Jeff Hogan for his leadership as our Director of Development Services,” said City Mayor R. Rex Parris. “Under his guidance, the division has made significant strides in improving the quality of life for our citizens. His contributions have been invaluable, and we appreciate the dedication and hard work he has put in during his time here.”
Hogan is set to retire from the City of Lancaster later this year after seven years as the Director of Development Services. With the transition, Marissa Diaz was promoted to the position of Director of Public Works and Larissa De La Cruz was promoted the Director of Community Development.
Director of Public Works Marissa Diaz
“This restructuring has provided a chance for us to grow from within our organization, and we’re excited to celebrate the talents of Marissa Diaz and Larissa De La Cruz in their respective roles,” Parris added.
Marissa Diaz has been an invaluable member of the City of Lancaster team for over 18 years, demonstrating her expertise and leadership in the field of Public Works. As the former Lancaster Assistant Director – Capital Programs, she was responsible for programming and oversight of the City’s Capital Improvement Program, including over $150M in transportation, facilities and utility projects, the $50M Road Bond and the $10M annual Pavement Management Program. She has overseen numerous critical infrastructure projects, including the recent rehabilitation of several roads and bridges.
Director of Community Development Larissa De La Cruz
Larissa De La Cruz has been a vital contributor to Lancaster’s economic growth and development. She has led a team of traffic engineers and city planners in the completion of several major city projects including zoning text amendments, master planned developments, specific plans, the implementation of the city’s cannabis ordinance, and other initiatives to further streamline and update the City’s processes. She has a deep understanding of the local economy and has worked tirelessly with the development community to ensure smart growth and investment.
“Marissa and Larissa are well deserving of these promotions, and I am confident they will continue to excel and provide valuable leadership to the Lancaster team,” said Parris. “I look forward to seeing how this department restructuring will enhance the work being done to ensure the safety and functionality of our City’s infrastructure and bolster our local economy.”
About The City of Lancaster
Lancaster is a diverse community of nearly 170,000, leading the future through science, technology, art, culture, and collaboration. Home to astronauts, rocket scientists, families, and innovative businesses large and small, we are leading the USA with innovation. Combined with spectacular landscapes and clean air, Lancaster has the confidence, expertise, spirit, and imagination to transform tomorrow. We are: Creating a better tomorrow. Visit us at www.cityoflancasterca.gov.