Costa Mesa selects interim finance director

A former Orange County executive officer and budget director will be Costa Mesa’s interim finance director, according to a news release issued Wednesday.

Stephen Dunivent replaces Bobby Young, who left City Hall this month for a job in the private sector. Young was a 13-year city employee.

Dunivent, who starts Sept. 3, lives in Costa Mesa and will serve until Young’s permanent replacement is found.

Dunivent worked for the Orange County for 35 years and served as the deputy county executive officer from 2007 to 2011.

As the county budget director for 10 years, he managed a $5.4-billion annual budget with 24 departments and more than 17,000 employees, according to a news release.

“The city is fortunate to have someone of Dunivent’s ability and experience step into this position,” said city CEO Tom Hatch in a prepared statement. “He’s a perfect fit for Costa Mesa.”

Dunivent will work part time, earning $80.83 an hour with no benefits, according to a news release.

“I’m excited to assist Costa Mesa during this time,” Dunivent said in a prepared statement. “I’m looking forward to getting to work.”

—Bradley Zint