The new face of the Sequim’s public works department is a familiar one.

Matt Klontz, Sequim’s City Engineer and Assistant Public Works Director since October 2015, was picked to lead Sequim’s public works, city officials announced this week.

“Matt has strong character and is a passionate and valuable member of the Sequim team,” Charisse Deschenes, the City of Sequim’s interim city manager, said in a press release Monday.

“He continues to develop the Public Works team and his servant leadership style and is well prepared to ensure the continuity of services to the Sequim community.”

A licensed professional engineer, Klontz was appointed Interim Public Works Director in January 2021 when David Garlington retired.

“The public works department has been heading in the right direction for several years now,” Klontz said. “It’s an incredible group who clearly care and are dedicated to the public work’s mission of building and maintaining community by enhancing the City’s infrastructure.

As director, I hope to contribute my energy towards continuing the positive momentum that has been gained. Now is the time to recommit to our vision of making Sequim a destination where people want to live, work, and play.”

Klontz has a bachelor’s of science degree in civil engineering from Washington State University and a master’s of science degree in construction management from the University of Washington.

He has worked as an engineer since 2003.

His previous employment includes work for the City of Seattle, Jefferson County and Parsons Corporation.

Deschenes said Garlington helped encourage and mentor Klontz for the lead role with public works.

“Matt brings his own vision and style to the position,” Deschenes said. “He is a great steward of city resources and I’m looking forward to working with him closely in his new role.”