Randy Macchi Appointed Houston Public Works Director

Houston Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Randy Macchi as the new director of Houston Public Works (HPW), marking the first time the position will be held by someone without an engineering degree. The City Council unanimously approved a change to the city ordinance that previously required the director to be a licensed engineer, allowing Macchi's appointment to proceed. Macchi, who has served as HPW's Chief Operating Officer and has extensive experience as an attorney and leadership coach, replaces Carol Haddock, who retired amid complaints about water billing issues. Critics, including the American Society of Civil Engineers, have expressed concerns about the lack of engineering expertise in the role, emphasizing the importance of having a licensed engineer oversee public safety decisions. Despite these concerns, Whitmire praised Macchi's responsiveness and leadership during emergencies, asserting that he is well-suited to improve the department. Macchi's appointment is effective immediately, and while he lacks engineering credentials, city officials have ensured that a licensed city engineer will still oversee major engineering decisions.