City officials said the appointment comes as Santa Monica continues to implement infrastructure and investment efforts under its broader planning initiatives.
The city of Santa Monica has appointed a longtime employee to lead its Public Works Department following the retirement of its current director.
City Manager Oliver Chi announced that Christopher Dishlip has been named director of Public Works. Dishlip, who has worked for the city for nearly 17 years, previously served as assistant director since 2022.
According to city officials, Dishlip assumed the new role April 6. His annual salary is set at $315,684.
He replaces Rick Valte, who is retiring after nearly 26 years with the city.
Dishlip has held several roles during his tenure, including overseeing facility maintenance and architecture services divisions and serving as the city’s capital program manager. He has also been involved in major local projects such as the City Hall East building, the Pico Branch Library, Parking Structure 6 and the development of Ishihara Park and Historic Belmar Park.
Dishlip holds engineering degrees from the University of Arizona and the University of Southern California and is a licensed civil engineer in California. He also has certifications in sustainable design and construction management.
City officials said the appointment comes as Santa Monica continues to implement infrastructure and investment efforts under its broader planning initiatives.
