Lynwood Public Works Director Retires

Dan Ojeda, the Director of the Public Works Department in Lynwood since 2006, officially began his retirement this week.

“There’s never been a dull moment,” said Ojeda, according to a city issued release. “Anything, you name it, there’s always something going on.”

Ojeda managed largest department within the city of Lynwood, consisting of 68 full-time employees, six divisions and with a budget of more than $35 million.

During the Lynwood City Council meeting of November 20, 2012, Ojeda was given a proclamation from the council in recognition for his years of service.

“It’s a sad day for us, but a new day for Dan,” said councilmember Jim Morton, who at the time was serving as Lynwood Mayor. “Ever since I found out he was retiring, I’ve tried several times to convince him to stay.”

Ojeda was also praised by Roger Haley, Lynwood’s city manager, for his ability to work diligently during these difficult economic times.

“He maximized limited resources to do a good job for the city,” said Haley, according to the city press release. “Dan was a very good Public Works Director.”

However, tough budget realities did create tension between some members of the council and the departing Director of Public Works.

For example, Ojeda and his department were strongly criticized by councilmember Aide Castro during a meeting in July.

Castro expressed concerns over the use of bad equipment by some public work employees. The councilmember also had anxieties over the department’s use of an outside consultant, plus the existence of several

According to the city press release, Lynwood will first look to hire internally to fill the Public Works Director vacancy. Outside candidates will only be consulted if all internal candidates fail to meet the requirements.

In the meantime Josef Kekula, an employee from the Lynwood Public Works Department, has been put in charge.

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