Charles Genkel. Courtesy photo.
VENTURA — The Resource Management Agency has selected Charles Genkel to serve as the County Environmental Health Director. He is filling the position left open by the retirement of Bill Stratton in January.
Genkel has been the Environmental Health Manager for the Technical Services and Vector Control sections since 2015.
“The Environmental Health Division plays a critical role in protecting public health and the environment,” said RMA Director Kim Prillhart. “Among other duties, Environmental Health is responsible for hazardous materials, mosquito control, monitoring ocean water quality and ensuring the safety of our food. Over the past year, they have been responsible for overseeing the safe removal of fire debris from the Thomas, Hill and Woolsey fires, and Charles has been a big part of that effort.”
Genkel has a degree in Environmental and Occupational Health from California State University, Northridge. He started his career with the County in 1994 as a Mosquito Abatement Technician. Since then, he has held positions within the agency of increasing responsibility in Community Services, Hazardous Materials, Administration and Information Technology.
“Charles has a ‘can do’ reputation and is well-known for outstanding customer service,” said Prillhart. “In 2018, the County Management Council presented him with the Superior Customer Service Award which recognizes responsiveness, clarity, patience and enthusiasm in consistently exceeding customer expectations. Those are qualities that will serve the public in his new capacity as well.”
Genkel began his new duties on March 25th. His office is located in the Resource Management Agency at the Hall of Administration at the Ventura County Government Center in Ventura.