Rick Scott
Deputy Director , Department of Transportation , City of San Jose Member of Morgan Hill Park and Recreation Commission
As a young Naval officer Rick ’ s leadership was put to the
test . Like most junior officers at their first command , he faced skepticism from older officers and enlisted members . By learning , listening and remaining true to his core values , he turned the tide – earning their respect and cooperation . “ It was trial by fire ,” He says . “ It tempers you .” In his 14-year Naval career , the current active reservist has continued to lead — from surface warfare officer to navigation instructor , to his current duty as executive officer , Expeditionary Port , Unit 117 Alameda CA . He was recently selected for promotion to the rank of commander .
In civilian life , Rick ’ s leadership is called on daily . As Department of Transportation deputy director , he leads a 300 person / $ 120 million infrastructure and maintenance division for the City of San Jose . He oversees operations , construction , and maintenance functions for streets and bridges , storm and sanitary sewers , street landscape and associated programs — including streetlights , traffic signals and other traffic infrastructure . This includes a $ 100 million per year street pavement program .
“ There are a lot of great people in city government who lead with integrity .” Rick says of those he serves . He credits his staff and workforce for their accomplishments in a year
shrouded in uncertainty . “ The first six months were tough . We had a lot of people in the field . PPE and safety were the highest priorities .” Rick says . “ Everyone has done a great job establishing and adhering to good protocols . We ’ ve learned a lot .” His division completed 180 miles of pavement in 2020 — an amazing feat in a normal year .
The seven-year Morgan Hill resident has served on the Parks and Recreation Commission since 2016 . He and wife Guiliana , with daughter Aurelia 3 , love exercising , exploring the area and traveling . The farmer ’ s market and downtown are favorite spots . “ It ’ s a town with lots of charm . People want to live , play and work here , so its growing .” Rick says , emphasizing that its everyone ’ s responsibility to create a city that serves its current and future residents . “ I would love my daughter to understand how each person has the power and responsibility to take action , improve their community and serve their neighbors .”
Rick sees community as a vibrant place — equitable and inclusive for all . “ I define community as its people , so everyone should have a voice and be valued .” We thank Rick and his family for their service and look forward to seeing what ’ s next .
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GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN WINTER 2021 gmhtoday . com