Public Works Staff
Anush Nejad, P.E. - Director of Public Works
Anush Nejad brings over 30 years of extensive experience in public works administration and management. Prior to joining the City of Tracy team, Mr. Nejad held leadership positions, including Director of Public Works for the City of South Lake Tahoe, and Community Development Director and Deputy Director of Public Works for the neighboring City of Mountain House.
Before he transitioned to public agencies, Mr. Nejad spent more than 27 years in the private sector, working with consulting firms on a wide range of infrastructure projects across California and the United States. His portfolio includes major highway and interchange projects, utility infrastructure, corridor and master plan studies, bridge engineering, transit improvement studies, airport planning and design, as well as Intelligent Transportation Systems planning and design. He has also provided expertise in statewide program and risk management, design and construction services, and construction management.
Mr. Nejad holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Public Administration from California State University. He is a licensed Civil and Traffic Engineer in the State of California. In addition, he has earned a Public Leadership Credential from the Harvard John F. Kennedy School of Government, further demonstrating his commitment to effective and visionary public service leadership.
David Murphy - Assistant Director of Operations
David Murphy brings over 35 years of extensive experience in both private and public sectors to his role as Assistant Director of the Operations Division in the Public Works Department for the City of Tracy. In this capacity, he has been instrumental in advancing the growth and modernization of the Division, ensuring that the City's infrastructure meets contemporary standards and future needs.
Renowned for his exceptional work ethic and results-driven approach, David has significantly contributed to the industry, including his role as a mentor and instructor at the Municipal Superintendents Association. His dedication to professional development has helped shape the next generation of Public Works leaders.
As a Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessor, David is a leading authority in urban forestry and hazard mitigation. His career, spanning roles from crew member to business owner, showcases his outstanding leadership and passion for arboriculture in the Tracy and San Francisco Bay Areas. His expertise in tree care and risk management has been pivotal in maintaining and enhancing urban green spaces.
David also holds a Qualified Applicator License with California's Department of Pesticide Regulation, specializing in Integrated Pest Management. This qualification underscores his commitment to sustainable practices and effective pest control strategies. His expertise is crucial to Tracy's emergency management team, where he is certified in the National Incident Management Systems (NIMS). Additionally, he serves as the Public Works representative on the San Joaquin County Hazard Mitigation Team, playing a vital role in regional safety and disaster preparedness.
A veteran of the Army Reserve, David is celebrated for his leadership skills, approachable nature, and ability to make complex subjects accessible. His unwavering dedication to excellence and commitment to the City of Tracy and its residents distinguish him as a leader in the Public Works sector.
Stephanie Reyna-Hiestand - Assistant Director of Utilities
Stephanie has over 25 years of professional experience in the public works and utilities sectors. For the past 19 years, she has managed the Water Resources and Compliance Division for the City of Tracy and in February 2023, was selected from a field of qualified professionals to serve as the Assistant Director - Utilities. Over her career, she has touched nearly every area surrounding water, wastewater, solid waste, and stormwater regulatory compliance and adherence to State and Federal mandates. Prior to that, she worked for San Joaquin County Department of Public Works in both the Solid Waste and Stormwater fields.
Stephanie serves as the staff liaison for the City on several commissions, advisory panels, and stakeholder groups. She currently serves as a commissioner on the San Joaquin County Advisory Water Commission and the staffer for the Environmental Sustainability Commission. She has served as a Director, Treasurer, and Secretary for the California Stormwater Quality Association and was awarded an outstanding service award from CASQA in 2019 for her dedication to the stormwater field.
She has her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Notre Dame de Namur and is a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control as well as Qualified Stormwater Developer. She has served a past president, treasurer, and secretary for the Tracy Mid-Manager’s Bargaining Unit.
Stephanie has been married to her husband James Hiestand for over 20 years and has a blended family of 3 girls, 2 boys, and serves as grandma and meemaw to multiple little ones.
Even G. Marcelo, P.E. - City Engineer
Even G. Marcelo is the City Engineer for the City of Tracy, with more than two decades of experience in civil engineering, construction, and local government leadership. A licensed Professional Civil Engineer, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from California State University, Sacramento.
He began his career with the City of Stockton, progressing from Engineering Technician to leadership roles across multiple departments, including Public Works, Municipal Utilities, and Community Development. Most recently, he managed the Capital Improvement Program for Stockton’s Public Works Department, overseeing major infrastructure and transportation projects, managing development review, and guiding long-range planning efforts. Throughout his career, Even has successfully secured and administered millions of dollars in federal, state, and local grant funding to deliver critical infrastructure and transportation projects that enhance community safety and quality of life.
Recognized as a collaborative and approachable leader, Even is dedicated to building strong teams, fostering regional partnerships, and ensuring Tracy’s infrastructure is well-planned, resilient, and community-focused.