City Manager

James Vega 

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 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. 

The City Manager serves as the Chief Executive Officer responsible for the management of all City operations and the implementation of the policies and vision of the Port Hueneme City Council. He works closely with the City’s Executive Team (Deputy City Manager, Police Chief, Finance Director, Community Development Director, Public Works Director, and Housing & Facilities Director) to ensure that quality City services are delivered to the Port Hueneme community in the most efficient manner possible.

Strategic Priorities

The City Council has identified five strategic priorities:

• Promoting Port Hueneme’s Coastal Amenities
• Cultivating a High Performing City Organization
• Maintaining Port Hueneme’s Infrastructure at a High Level
• Enhancing Community Involvement
• Creating a Sustainable Financial Future for the City

The City Manager will work with the City Council, City staff and the community to make sure that these strategic priorities are achieved in order for Port Hueneme to continue to enjoy the qualities that have always made it a great place to live and to work. As well as, take the community to the next level, with a constant focus on improving the quality of life in the "Friendly City by the City."

Get Involved

We welcome your ideas and involvement. The City Manager can be reached by phone at 805-986-6501 or email City Manager’s office.