City of Santa Barbara Announces New Public Works Director, Launches Water Resources Department

The City of Santa Barbara is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian D'Amour as Public Works Director and the creation of a new Department of Water Resources, to be led by Joshua Haggmark. Both appointments will become effective September 22, 2025.

Following a highly competitive recruitment process that drew applicants from across the country, the City conducted a rigorous evaluation with input from both internal department heads and external public works professionals. Based on the feedback and final interviews, City Administrator Kelly McAdoo selected both D'Amour and Haggmark to lead the City's evolving infrastructure and water management efforts.

"This new structure will allow us to better serve our residents and plan strategically for the future of Santa Barbara's infrastructure and water systems. I'm thrilled to have two proven leaders stepping into these roles, each bringing decades of experience and a deep commitment to our community," said McAdoo.

The City Council will consider the employment agreements for both directors at its September 16 meeting.

Brian D'Amour Named Public Works Director

As Public Works Director, Brian D'Amour will oversee Engineering and Public Works Operations, including transportation, facilities maintenance, and capital improvement projects. A licensed Professional Engineer and graduate of Pennsylvania State University, D'Amour brings over 25 years of experience in both the public and private sectors. He has served the City of Santa Barbara since 2007, most recently as City Engineer, and has also held roles as Acting Public Works Director and Interim Airport Director.

During his tenure, the City has delivered numerous high-impact capital projects, modernized infrastructure systems, and strengthened interdepartmental coordination to improve service delivery and community outcomes.

"Public Works touches every part of our daily lives-from the roads we drive to the buildings we use. As a resident of this world class city, I'm proud to lead a team that's dedicated to making Santa Barbara a safe, sustainable, and vibrant place to live," said D'Amour.

For department information and services, visit Public Works Department (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/PW).

New Department of Water Resources to Be Led by Joshua Haggmark

The newly established Department of Water Resources will consolidate all water-related services under one umbrella, including water supply, water system, wastewater system, and desalination operations. Joshua Haggmark, a licensed Civil Engineer and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo graduate, brings 25 years of service to the City, including 12 years as Water Resources Manager and most recently as Acting Public Works Director.

Under his leadership, the City has successfully navigated an historic drought, reactivated the Charles E. Meyer Desalination Facility, and managed a diverse water supply portfolio that includes Lake Cachuma, Gibraltar Reservoir, groundwater, recycled water, State Water, and desalinated water.

"Our water resources are essential to Santa Barbara's future, and I'm honored to be selected to lead this new department focused on protecting and sustaining this precious resource for generations to come. This new department reflects the City's strong commitment to water resilience, and I'm honored to lead such a dedicated and professional team of public servants," said Haggmark.

For water resources information and programming, visit Water Resources (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/water).

Contact