Ventura County names new harbor director
Michael Tripp, a veteran harbor official in Los Angeles County, will replace the last leader of Channel Islands Harbor, who retired in August, the county of Ventura announced Sept. 15.
He is expected to begin his role as the new director of the county-owned Channel Islands Harbor on Oct. 4. Tripp, who most recently served as planning division chief for the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors, was appointed by Ventura County Executive Officer Mike Powers following a nationwide recruitment.
In a statement released by Ventura County, Tripp said he’s “looking forward to engaging with the local community, expanding on the great work that is underway and bringing what I’ve learned to the Channel Islands Harbor.”
He will replace Mark Sandoval, who retired from his position Aug. 31 after joining the Ventura County Harbor Department in 2018.
“Recently retired Harbor Director Mark Sandoval did an excellent job in positioning the harbor for success with the recent cooperation agreement and visioning process,” Powers said in a statement. “We look forward to having Michael continue the momentum on this path.”
In a news release announcing Tripp’s appointment, Ventura County officials said his most recent role involved interacting with developers, lessees, non-government organizations, the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board and other stakeholders on a variety of issues on behalf of the Department of Beaches and Harbors.
Tripp worked for Los Angeles County for the last 20 years, including 10 years for the Department of Beaches and Harbors, overseeing nearly 25 miles of beaches and redeveloping Marina del Rey harbor.
As the director of Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, Tripp and his staff will be tasked with collaborating with business partners to create a robust local economy and working with residents to enhance the harbor’s recreational value, according to the county.
“I see an incredible opportunity in this position to help make Channel Islands Harbor a vibrant destination that will be a draw to tourists, locals, boaters and fisherman,” Tripp said.
In May, Ventura County and the city of Oxnard both approved an agreement for major improvements in the Channel Islands Harbor, agreeing to areas of land use, as well as shared cost of maintenance and infrastructure.
“The harbor provides jobs and revenue, brings in tourism dollars and serves as a destination for people looking for restaurants, hotels, activities and events,” Powers said.
