Morro Bay City Manager, Scott Collins, announced today that he is appointing Ted Schiafone as the City’s new Harbor Director.  Mr. Collins selected Ted following a comprehensive interview process that included interviews with community members, Harbor Department staff, waterfront users and economic development professionals.  Mr. Schiafone begins his work with the City team February 13^th.   

“I am excited to bring Ted Schiafone onboard at this pivotal time,” said City Manager Collins.  “The Harbor is central to the City’s success and is facing some big challenges.  We need someone with strong business and leadership experience to build a long-term financially viable waterfront and begin to address the growing Harbor infrastructure needs.  Ted is the right person for the job, and I look forward to him leading the Harbor Department and joining the City’s executive team.” 

Ted Schiafone comes to Morro Bay with over 30 years of related harbor and business experience. Currently, he serves as Division Manager for the City of Oceanside, CA Harbor District.  In that capacity, he is accountable for the $9 million budget, with over 20 employees, 958 boat slips, the retail village, real estate leases, and Harbor Beaches.  Previously, Ted owned and managed a succession of commercial businesses and real estate developments, concurrently over a 20-year period. His largest project was the $7.5 million redevelopment of a full-service marina on the West Coast of Florida. The revitalization required intense navigation of the extensive environmental, permitting, and entitlement issues.  In addition, Ted served in leadership roles in the banking industry.   Ted holds an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Rollins College, a BA from Upsala College, and various relevant certifications and licenses.  

“I am thrilled to become a part of the Morro Bay Community, and work with the talented team of professionals the City has assembled,” said Ted Schiafone.  

Mr. Schiafone will oversee the Harbor Department of 7 full-time employees and several part-time employees.  Key upcoming Department initiatives include completing the organizational assessment, assisting the Public Works Department in assessing Harbor capital needs, and developing revenue enhancement options for the waterfront.   

Becka Kelly will continue to serve as acting Harbor Director until Mr. Schiafone’s official start date.