Albemarle County names new director of Facilities and Environmental Services

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors has appointed Jeffrey Dumars as the director of the county’s Facilities and Environmental Services Department.

From a read of the job, it could almost be two departments. On one side, the department is responsible for maintaining and improving county-owned buildings, grounds, and infrastructure, manages the planning, design, and construction of all major capital improvement projects. A whole ‘nother side of the job is management of the county’s operations to prevent pollution, ensure compliance with state and federal environmental laws and regulations, and assists residents in minimizing waste in the county.

You could almost carve out a third: FES also oversees fleet management, building security, copy and mail services, and street sign maintenance.

Dumars has worked in the department since early last year, and took over as interim director in September.

“It is an honor to lead the talented and dedicated members of the Facilities and Environmental Services team. Together, we will continue to steward the county’s facilities and resources with innovation and care, ensuring they meet the needs of our organization and community,” said Dumars, who has more than 20 years of experience as an urban planner and designer, with expertise in planning and facilities development for municipalities, the private sector, and institutions of higher education.

Dumars, who has a master’s in city and regional planning and a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, has held leadership roles at his alma mater, at Virginia Tech, and at Auburn University, where he directed significant facilities and environmental planning initiatives.

He’s already been hard at work from the few months he’s been on the job as the interim director: Dumars has been in charge of several key initiatives, including developing a framework and guiding document for space management, implementing the county’s litter collection program, and overseeing the construction work to open Biscuit Run Park.

“Jeff brings a proven track record of strong leadership in planning and facilities management,” said County Executive Jeff Richardson. “His strategic vision and commitment to excellence will continue to advance our efforts to meet the needs of Albemarle County.”