Meet Your New Public Works Director: Paul Toor

South Pasadena Public Works Director Paul Toor's first few months on the job have been hectic—to say the least.

Now only did news break that the City was facing $2.8 million in sewage fees, but in decades. 

Nevertheless with 30 years of civil engineering experience under his belt, Toor says he's up for the challenges ahead. One of his current priorities is replacing the Wilson Water Pump, which is slated to go out to bid in April 2012. 

Patch recently asked Toor a handful of questions about his background and goals for South Pas. Here's what he had to say: 

Tell us a little about your background and what you hope to bring to the City of South Pas?

I have over 30 years of experience in Civil Engineering/Public Works field. Prior to joining South Pas, I have served as Public Works Director/City Engineer for 20 years for three full service (with water & sewer services) cities in California. I am a Registered Civil Engineer in California and have Masters in Public Administration (MPA) with undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering.      

At a City Council meeting earlier this year, John Davidson said you've had a lot of experience with capital improvement projects. Can you talk about some of these projects that you're currently overseeing?

During my tenure as Public Works Director/City Engineer, I have managed projects over $150 million, including but not limited to streets, storm drains, traffic signals, buildings, water and sewer projects.

The key projects we are working on are Wilson Reservoir/pump station, Garfield Reservoir/pump station, Westside Reservoir, water system hydraulic modeling, sewer line repairs/replacement and numerous street improvement projects.       

Because of the controversial Fair Oaks Corridor Improvement Project, many residents have asked that the City create a Public Works Commission comprised of qualified residents with engineering, infrastructure background. Do you think this is a good/bad idea? Have you seen this done in other Cities?

It is a policy decision of the City Council. I have worked with Public Works Boards and Utilities Commission. Generally, the role of  the commission and/or board was advisory in nature.        

As you take the lead on various projects in the City, how to you plan to keep residents informed/involved?

I am in the process of consolidating a list of Capital Improvement Projects. Staff will post the status of all the projects on City’s website.

Additionally, a project status report will be provided to the City Council and residents on an as-needed basis during the regular televised City Council meetings. The report will also be made available to the media.           

What are you most excited about with your new role?

To get the capital improvement projects delivered!

Anything else you'd like to add? What else would you like the community to know about you?

I am pleased to be here as a member of City’s management team. Look forward to serving the residents of South Pas. 

 

South Pas announced in October that Toor would be the City's next Public Works Director. He comes to the City as the seventh director within about nine years. His predecessor, Matt Sweeney,  after two years with the City.