Pinal County Unveils New Consolidated Department: Development Services, Led by Veteran Joe Ortiz

Pinal County has revealed plans to integrate the Public Works and Community Development Departments into a new entity known as Development Services. The new managing director of the consolidated department is Joe Ortiz, a dedicated public servant who has spent 36 years with Pinal County.

County Manager Leo Lew confirmed the news, highlighting the objective behind the strategic move: "In Pinal County, we continually strive to increase levels of teamwork, resulting in a more rewarding work environment and effective customer service. With the coming together of the Public Works and Community Development Departments into Development Services, we aim to optimize team coordination, communication, and resilience."

The merging of these two key departments aims to create a seamless experience for customers. According to Lew, when a customer enters the building, they will now be greeted by "Development Services" – a unified team working together to achieve excellence in service delivery.

The objective behind this merger is to foster innovation and increase mutual support within the team, resulting in a higher-quality experience for both employees and the public. Lew expressed optimism about the improved efficiencies and enhanced customer experience the newly formed department will bring.

Ortiz, the newly appointed Managing Director, brings decades of experience and a comprehensive understanding of county operations to his new role. Beginning his journey in 1987 as a Surveyor-Engineering Aide, Ortiz steadily rose through the ranks, assuming numerous positions including Survey Party Chief, Civil Engineering Tech, Contracts Coordinator, Principal Civil Engineering Tech, Civil Engineering Section Chief, Public Works Manager, and Assistant to County Manager. Prior to his appointment as Managing Director, he served as the Deputy Director of Public Works.

Ortiz, a proud graduate of Central Arizona College, Pima Community College, and the University of Arizona, holds certifications as a Certified Public Manager and Certified Floodplain Manager. He is an active member of the American Public Works Association-AZ and American Council of Engineering Companies-AZ. In recognition of his exemplary work, Ortiz received the Arizona Association of County Engineers Robert C. Esterbrooks Award.

Outside of his professional commitments, Ortiz enjoys spending quality time with his wife, three children, and three grandchildren. As he assumes this new role, Ortiz's wealth of experience and dedication to public service are expected to drive the newly consolidated Development Services towards achieving greater success.