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Portola Valley’s former longtime public works director, Howard Young, started a new role as director of public works for the city of Newark on July 15, according to a July 2 announcement from the city.
Young was one of a long list of Portola Valley staffers who left the town in the last two years. Young worked for the town for over 22 years before leaving at the end of June. The town did not provide a reason for his departure.
“We are excited to welcome Howard to the city of Newark family where his knowledge, experience, and leadership will benefit Newark,” said Newark City Manager David Benoun in a statement. “Mr. Young served as a Public Works Director for over 20 years, and we are excited about the wealth of experience he will bring to us.”
Young replaces Soren Fajeau who worked for the city of Newark for 27 years, starting as an engineering technician.
Young, a Bay Area native who graduated from San Jose State University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, began his career in local government with the city of San Mateo Public Works Department as an engineering technician, according to the city of Newark announcement. He then worked for two public companies where he led construction of a fiber optic telecommunications system throughout the entire Bay Area for high-speed internet from San Rafael to San Jose, on BART. He also constructed networks within cities.
In Portola Valley, Young oversaw engineering, maintenance, and the town’s Capital Improvement Program, which included overseeing the construction of the new LEED Platinum Town Center in 2008.
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Congratulations and best wishes, Howard! Here’s to you for finding public service work that is not a prisoner to a hidebound, antidemocratic and (hopefully) shrinking minority community ethos of NIMBY now, NIMBY tomorrow and NIMBY forever.