By Staff Reports
(HONOLULU) –Mayor Rick Blangiardi has appointed Daniel Brieck as Deputy Director of the Department of Environmental Services (ENV), effective April 1, 2025. Brieck succeeds Michael O’Keefe, who will transition to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) as Chief Operating Officer.
Brieck brings over 12 years of experience with the City and County of Honolulu, most recently serving as Program Administrator for the Division of Wastewater Treatment and Disposal and Acting Chief of the Division of Environmental Quality. Throughout his tenure, he has been instrumental in regulatory compliance, infrastructure planning, and workforce development, significantly improving hiring practices and workplace culture within the department.
“We are excited to have Daniel accept this very important position on our team. His leadership and dedication to our island’s environmental health make him the right choice for this vital role,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “Daniel has the vision, experience, and drive to move ENV forward and deliver results for our communities.”
Brieck has played a key role in managing major construction projects, strengthening relationships with regulatory agencies, and spearheading strategic hiring initiatives that have reduced vacancy rates and improved operational efficiency. His leadership has led to a more accountable and performance-driven workforce, ensuring the department meets critical environmental and public health standards.
“I’m honored to step into this role and continue serving the people of Honolulu,” said Brieck. “We have an incredible team at ENV, and I look forward to building on the momentum we’ve created to protect our environment and strengthen our systems for the future.”
Brieck holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture and Construction Management from Ohio State University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in Hawai‘i and was named ENV Employee of the Year in 2020 for his leadership in managing the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Primary Expansion, Phase 2 project.