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VENTURA — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has recently received full accreditation from the American Public Works Association (APWA). This accreditation formally verifies and recognizes that the Ventura County Public Works Agency has demonstrated that it operates as a cohesive team and does so to nationally recognized, best-management practices.
Officially awarded on November 3, 2026, the accreditation marks a significant milestone following three years of dedicated work by employees across the Agency’s five departments: Central Services, Engineering Services, Roads & Transportation, Water & Sanitation, and Watershed Protection. VCPWA joins a select group of approximately 230 accredited public works organizations nationwide, representing less than 1% of public works agencies across the country, and is only the seventh county public works agency in California to achieve this distinction.
In October, APWA evaluators conducted an on-site assessment, reviewing the Agency’s operations and verifying compliance with established standards. The accreditation process included a comprehensive review of the Agency’s policies, procedures, and operations to ensure alignment with nationally recognized public works management practices. VCPWA staff demonstrate compliance with 374 recommended best practices across 30 subject areas, reflecting the Agency’s dedication to operational excellence.
“Over the course of the last three years, the individual and collective efforts of the Public Works staff to achieve this milestone illustrate the dedication and commitment to exceptional public service and to our wonderful community,” said Gregg Strakaluse, Director of the Ventura County Public Works Agency.
This achievement recognizes the Agency’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, and delivery of high-quality public works services to communities in Ventura County.
About Ventura County Public Works Agency
The Agency is committed to its mission of delivering efficient, responsive, and cost-effective public works services that protect and enhance the safety, health, and quality of life in Ventura County. Through its five departments, the Agency maintains and improves critical infrastructure while serving communities throughout the county. For more information, visit publicworks.venturacounty.gov.
About APWA
The American Public Works Association (APWA) is an international professional organization dedicated to advancing excellence in public works through education, advocacy, and professional development. Its accreditation program recognizes agencies that meet nationally established management practices. For more information, visit apwa.org.