At their June 5, 2023, regular meeting, the City of Port Hueneme City Council appointed James Vega as City Manager effective July 17, 2023. Mr. Vega will take over the role from interim City Manager Tony Stewart, who will return to his position as the City’s Community Development Director.
Mr. Vega comes to the City of Port Hueneme after serving as City Manager for the City of Ojai for the past four years. Prior to that position, Mr. Vega had 11 years of experience in City Manager’s Departments for the City of Ojai and the City of Oxnard.
Mr. Vega brings extensive management experience to the City of Port Hueneme having led several challenging projects for the City of Ojai. He implemented two critical tax measures to substantially increase City revenues, developed a customer service focused culture, rebuilt the City’s Emergency Reserves, launched a General Plan Update, and implemented many climate actions including the formation of a Climate Emergency Mobilization Committee.
Mr. Vega, an attorney, grew up in Ventura County. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in English from California State University Channel Islands and obtained a Juris Doctorate Degree from the Colleges of Law. He became a member of the California State Bar Association in January of 2013.
“I grew up surfing in Port Hueneme and lived in Port Hueneme for many years. I am looking forward to serving the community that has truly become a part of my life.”
Mr. Vega will be paid an annual starting salary of $239,000 plus benefits, and will begin his employment with the City of Port Hueneme on July 17, 2023.