Foy appointed chairman of the board
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

Peter Foy was appointed chair of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, just a few days after marking his first year in office.

The Simi Valley resident and businessman was vice-chairman of the board in 2007. He replaces Supervisor Linda Parks, who had been at the helm for two years.

"I'm happy to hand off the gavel," Parks said. "After two solid years, I know firsthand why it's a one-year job."

Chairs of the board are responsible for managing board agendas and leading meetings.

They become the point of contact for outside agencies and the public and attend more meetings than other board members because they sit on more committees.

"There is considerable extra work for the staff of the supervisor who is chair because they take on the responsibility of producing most of the resolutions that are presented at board meetings," Parks said.

Although Foy is already busy managing county affairs during the day, overseeing the operations of his business services brokerage firm in Woodland Hills and making time to spend with his family, he looks forward to the added challenge of leading the county board, he said.

"There's a lot of work ahead of us, especially with the budget this year. We have to make sure we stay fiscally sound and manage the county without any layoffs." Foy said he's been able to juggle the many tasks at hand because he's surrounded by quality staff members.

Foy was elected to represent Moorpark, Simi Valley and surrounding unincorporated areas in 2006.

Although this is his first stint holding public office, Foy's performance as supervisor has won over even those who didn't give him their vote.

"I think he's done an outstanding job and I would not hesitate to endorse him in the next election if he decided to run," said Simi Valley Councilmember Barbra Williamson, who voted for Foy's opponent, Jim Dantona.

Williamson said Foy is a likable person and he's very much in tune with his constituency in Ventura County, particularly the 4th District.

Dale Parvin, chairman of the Moorpark Chamber of Commerce, agreed.

"Foy's doing a fantastic job," he said. "He uses a business approach to manage government affairs and he's able to persuade other supervisors with his way of thinking."

At last Tuesday's meeting, county officials chose Supervisor Steve Bennett to serve as vice-chair for the upcoming year.