The County has announced that it is bringing together the Public Works and Community Development Departments into Development Services and that Joe Ortiz, a 36-year Public Works employee, will be the Managing Director of Development Services. County Manager Leo Lew explains more.
In Pinal County, we continually strive to increase levels of teamwork, resulting in a more rewarding work environment and effective customer service. In situations where operations to deliver customer service are highly integrated and interdependent, we want to optimize team coordination, communication, and resilience. With this in mind, I am pleased to announce the coming together of the Public Works and Community Development Departments into Development Services.
When a customer walks into the building, "Development Services" is the label that they see, and is how they perceive the team behind the windows. Our vision in organizationally bringing the teams together is to increase support for one another and foster innovation, resulting in a greater experience for both the team members and the customers.
About Joe Ortiz
Joe began his now 36-year career with Pinal County Public Works in 1987 as a Surveyor-Engineering Aide, progressively taking on more challenging roles and responsibilities such as Survey Party Chief, Civil Engineering Tech, Contracts Coordinator, Principal Civil Engineering Tech, Civil Engineering Section Chief, Public Works Manager, and Assistant to County Manager.
Joe was appointed Deputy Director of Public Works in January 2021, utilizing his institutional knowledge to lead by providing organizational and strategic leadership in support of the Public Works Director, County Management, and Board of Supervisors.
Joe attended Central Arizona College, Pima Community College, and the University of Arizona. He has also received certifications as a Certified Public Manager and Certified Floodplain Manager. He is a registered member of the American Public Works Association-Az and American Council of Engineering Companies-Az. Joe is a proud recipient of the Arizona Association of County Engineers Robert C. Esterbooks Award.
Joe enjoys spending family time with his wife, three children, and three grandchildren.