Public Works Director Rick Valte announced the selection of Christopher Dishlip as Santa Monica’s new Assistant Director of Public Works. Dishlip is tasked with overseeing more than 200 staff members in Architecture Services, Engineering and Street Services, Resource Recovery and Recycling, and Water Resources.
“Chris brings with him an abundance of capital improvement and operations experience,” said Santa Monica Public Works Director, Rick Valte. “Over the years, many of the City’s most complex and challenging projects have been entrusted to Chris, and he has consistently delivered them on time and within budget. Chris’ commitment to public service is unparalleled and I’m excited to work with him as he takes on his new responsibilities.”
Dishlip most recently served as the City’s Capital Program Manager where his duties included overseeing the planning, design, and construction activities for citywide Capital Improvement projects, as well as tenant improvements related to all City-owned facilities and open spaces. In addition to his crucial leadership in delivering City Hall East, the world’s greenest municipal building, Dishlip has successfully led the completion of large-scale projects including the Pico Branch Library, Parking Structure 6, Ishihara Park, Historic Belmar Park, Fire Station 1, and the City Yards Modernization.
“I am incredibly honored by this opportunity and excited to continue supporting the important role Public Works has in the community,” said Dishlip. “My entire career has been dedicated to public service and I take the responsibility very seriously. With the amazing team of committed employees we have here in Public Works, I know we can continue to do remarkable things now and into the future.”
Dishlip has 19 years of experience in public works design, construction and operations/maintenance, 13 of which he has spent in Santa Monica’s Public Works Department. Before joining the City of Santa Monica, he worked as a civil engineering associate for the City of Los Angeles on projects like the Northeast Interceptor Sewer and the Police Administration Building. Having previously led both Santa Monica’s Facility Maintenance and Architecture Services divisions, Dishlip brings invaluable experience delivering critical infrastructure and ensuring its continued proper operations and maintenance.
Dishlip earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the University of Arizona, a Master of Science in civil engineering from the University of Southern California and obtained a Certificate in Executive Management from the University of California, Los Angeles. He is a California licensed professional civil engineer, holds an accreditation in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED AP) and is a Design-Build Professional (DBIA Associate).
When not at work, Dishlip enjoys biking and spending time at the beach with his family. He began his role on May 9, 2022 and has an annual salary of $206,424.
