(BIVN) – David Yamamoto, a long-time County engineer, was confirmed as the new Director of Public Works by the Hawai‘i County Council during a meeting in Hilo on Wednesday.

Yamamoto, who officially takes over the department on February 1, 2019, replaces Allan Simeon, who submitted his resignation in December. The County reported that Simeon will remain at Public Works as an engineer.

After being subjected to lengthy questioning, Yamamoto was given Council approval. The County shared this information after the vote:

Yamamoto, a registered Professional Engineer, has more than 26 years of experience as an engineer and program management professional. He has held the position of Building Chief in Public Works’ Building Division since 2012.

Yamamoto, a United States Air Force veteran, joined the County of Hawai‘i in 1995 as a Civil Engineer III, and prior to that, he worked at the State Department of Health from 1992.

“We are really pleased that David agreed to take on this challenging job,” said Mayor Harry Kim, who was on hand for Wednesday’s council meeting to introduce his nominee. “David has done great work for the County for many years and has vast experience which will help us greatly.”