City of Simi Valley
Staff Report
May 11, 2026
To:
From:
Subject:
City Council
Office of the City Manager
Samantha C. Argabrite, City Manager
Authorization to initiate recruitment to fill At-Will Public Works Director position
Staff Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council authorize initiation of recruitment to fill the At-Will Public Works Director position.
Background
On January 28, 2026, Public Works Director Ron Fuchiwaki announced his retirement following a 25 -year career with the City of Simi Valley and a career in public service spanning over 50 years across multiple agencies. Mr. Fuchiwaki plans to retire by June 30, 2026. On April 25, 2019, the City Council provided direction that all recruitments for At-Will positions first receive authorization from the City Council prior to initiating recruitment. As th is executive-level position is critical to the operation s of the City, the City Manager is requesting authorization to initiate recruitment to fill th is upcoming vacancy.
Discussion
The Public Works Director is a critical position that oversees 250 employees in seven divisions including Administration, Engineering, Environmental Compliance, Maintenance, Waterworks, Sanitation, and Transit.
At its meeting of April 25, 2019, the City Council provided direction on recruitment, and the then Interim City Manager implemented a policy that recruitments for At -Will employees be first authorized by the City Council prior to starting the recruitment.
Additionally, two City Council Members will participate in the interview process and provide advisory input for the selection of a candidate to fill a vacant At-Will position.
Due to the breadth and complexity of the Public Works department, staff recommends that the recruitment be initiated immediately to provide an opportunity for the new Public Works Director to begin work and cross train with Mr. Fuchiwaki prior to his departure.
Agenda Item No.
C
onsent (2)
Financial Impact
The Public Works Director position is budgeted and included in the FY 2025-26 Adopted Budget.
City Council Priority
This item supports the Excellent City Government Pillar of Excellence.
Suggested Motion
I move to authorize the initiation of recruitment to fill the upcoming vacancy of the Public Works Director position.
Summary
On January 28, 2026, Public Works Director Ron Fuchiwaki announced his retirement following a 25 -year career with the City of Simi Valley and over 50 years in the public sector. Mr. Fuchiwaki plans to retire by June 30, 2026. Therefore, as this executive-level position is critical to the operations of the City, the City Manager is requesting authorization to initiate recruitment to fill this upcoming vacancy.
Prepared by: Samantha C. Argabrite, City Manager