Martinez, CA – The Board of Supervisors has selected Ben Winkleblack as the next Animal Services Director. His formal appointment was approved Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors meeting. His start date is Monday, May 6.
Animal Services plays a crucial role in protecting the health and safety of all people and animals in Contra Costa County through enforcement of state and local laws, protecting the public from animal injury, and working to prevent animal cruelty, abuse, and neglect.
“I’m excited to carry on the department’s commitment to ensuring quality services and prioritizing the well-being and safety of the people and animals of Contra Costa County,” Winkleblack said. “I’m honored to serve our community in this role and to lead such an experienced team at Animal Services.”
Winkleblack’s appointment permanently fills the role held in the interim by Captain Jane De May Andreotti, who stepped in to lead the team following the retirement of former Director Beth Ward.
Winkleblack began his career with Santa Cruz County in 2006 as an animal health technician before being promoted to shelter manager in 2010 – a role he held for a decade. In 2020, Winkleblack served as Assistant Director for the City of Oakland Animal Services department helping to modernize field services by implementing best practices focused on promoting owner retention of animals, support of unsheltered populations caring for animals, and increasing low-cost spay neuter programming to residents in need. Most recently, Winkleblack consulted for the Human Society of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“Mr. Winkleblack’s commitment to serving our most vulnerable animal populations is clear through his extensive experience, and we are excited to have him leading our efforts to protect residents and animals,” said Board Chair Federal D. Glover, District 5 Supervisor. “While we welcome Ben, we also thank Jane for maintaining stability at Animal Services during this transition period.”
Winkleblack’s estimated annual salary is $191,660.89.
Previous Stories:
- Jan 12, 2024 – Contra Costa County Announces Interim Animal Services Director
- Dec 6, 2023 – Contra Costa Animal Services Director to Step Down
