DPW Announces Jason W. Mitchell Begins as Acting Director

Green banner with DPW logo and text "Department of Public Works Press Release"

Today, the  Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) announces that Jason W. Mitchell has officially assumed the Department's Acting Director position. Mayor Brandon M. Scott appointed Mitchell to the role in March. He most recently served as the Assistant City Administrator for the City of Oakland. Mitchell comes to Baltimore with a long history of public service and a reputation for being a transformational leader.

“Identifying committed, transformational leadership for the Department of Public Works has been a top priority since taking office. I am thrilled to welcome Jason Mitchell, a veteran public servant who cares deeply about building local governments that function better for our residents, to the City of Baltimore team,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “From reforming the City’s broken water billing system to moving Baltimore towards zero waste, Jason’s strong leadership will be a crucial part of our administration.”

As Assistant City Administrator, Mitchell managed more than 2,500 City employees. His portfolio included the Departments of Public Works, Transportation, Planning, Building, Library, Parks and Recreation, Human Services, Workforce Employment Services, and Oakland’s 311. Before joining the City Administrator’s Office, he served as Director of Oakland’s Public Works Department.

“Mayor Scott and I share a commitment to solving problems and building cleaner, greener, and more equitable neighborhoods,” said Acting Director Jason W. Mitchell. “I look forward to serving the City of Baltimore as DPW Director and working to develop solutions for the benefit of every resident in partnership with the community.”

Matthew W. Garbark will return to his role as Deputy Director of DPW and directly support the new Acting Director.

 

Related Stories

DPW Statement on MOSH Investigation

As part of the Baltimore City Department of Public Works' commitment to maintaining transparency, we are sharing our latest statement regarding the conclusion of the Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) investigation. As we continue working to strengthen protections for our solid waste employees, we remain dedicated to ongoing improvements and accountability.

DPW Strengthens Workforce Protections and Infrastructure Amid Ongoing Improvements DPW Advances Employee Safety, Training, and Workplace Culture

DPW has implemented major reforms to tackle systemic challenges, marking significant advancements in the operations of its Bureau of Solid Waste (BSW). Recognizing that employee safety is the foundation of its success, DPW conducted a comprehensive assessment of key factors—including workplace culture, safety standards, infrastructure, and training—leading to the development of a targeted action plan. With clear progress underway, DPW is sharing key updates with the public, demonstrating that its strategic approach is yielding tangible results. 

DPW Offices, Sanitation Yards Closed on Presidents Day City of Baltimore to Observe Presidents Day, Monday, February 17

he Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW)  Director Khalil Zaied reminds residents that all DPW offices and sanitation yards will be CLOSED on Presidents Day, Monday, February 17, 2025. The Presidents Day closure does NOT impact residential trash and recycling collections.