Ben Bartlett promoted to public works director

Posted On: July 20, 2021

It’s one of the most expansive departments in all of Volusia County government, in charge of everything from road and bridge, traffic engineering, engineering and construction and stormwater management to mosquito control, water resources and utilities, solid waste and recycling and coastal activities. It’s the Volusia County Public Works Department, and it will soon be under new management.

On Tuesday, the Volusia County Council unanimously confirmed County Manager George Recktenwald’s choice for the new public works director – Ben Bartlett. Recktenwald looked internally to fill the post, which is opening up next month when Public Works Director John Angiulli retires on Aug. 6 following a 27-year career with the county. Bartlett has more than 25 years of building, site, roadway, parks and utility construction experience.

“He’s done a great job for the county and he’s eminently qualified for the position of public works director,” Recktenwald told council members on Tuesday.

Bartlett has been with the county since June 2016 and had been serving since September 2019 as director of road and bridge – one of seven operating divisions that comprise the public works department. Prior to coming to the county, Bartlett worked for the City of Orange City for nearly four years, first as public works operations manager and then as engineering construction manager. He also has 17 years of private sector experience as a project manager and project engineer for a variety of civil construction projects. As the county’s public works director, Bartlett will oversee a $205 million budget and approximately 435 employees. Council members both praised Angiulli for his many years of service and expressed strong support for the selection of Bartlett as his successor.

“Certainly, John has done a great job,” Councilwoman Barb Girtman told Bartlett. “And I think you’re the right fit for today and where we’re going.”

County Chair Jeff Brower added his words of praise, telling Bartlett: “Thank you for your good work. I know that you will keep it up. I’m really pleased to see this promotion.”

Humbled by the support, Bartlett expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to continue his public service in a new role.

“Public works offers the unique opportunity to do work that has immediate, positive impacts on the lives of Volusia County citizens,” said Bartlett moments after his confirmation. “Thank you again for this opportunity. I look forward to getting to work.”

Bartlett has a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Central Florida and currently serves as president of the Florida Association of County Engineers and Road Superintendents (FACERS).