Kings County appoints Jim Henderson as new Director of Public Works

The Kings County Board of Supervisors convened on April 1, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including regional collaboration on broadband services and the appointment of a new Director of Public Works.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding a regional approach to broadband service expansion. Supervisors expressed concerns about equitable funding distribution among counties, particularly highlighting the disparity between larger urban areas and the San Joaquin Valley. A collaborative effort among five counties aims to secure funding based on collective needs, ensuring that Kings County and its neighbors receive fair allocations rather than competing for limited resources. The board emphasized the importance of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) established in December 2024, which facilitates cooperation across county lines to enhance broadband capacity.

Following this discussion, the board moved to appoint James Henderson as the new Director of Public Works. Henderson, who has been with the county since 1995 and most recently served as Deputy Director, was confirmed for the position effective March 31, 2025, with a monthly compensation of $13,084. The board expressed confidence in Henderson's ability to lead the department, which oversees critical functions such as roads, parks, and engineering.

The meeting also included a study session on the future use of the former courthouse buildings in Hanford. The county plans to renovate these underutilized structures to accommodate various departments, including public health, which was displaced due to a fire in April 2024. This initiative aims to repurpose the space effectively while addressing the growing staffing needs within the county.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to regional collaboration on broadband services and the strategic appointment of leadership within the Public Works Department. The discussions set the stage for ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and services in Kings County.