FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Orange County Council of Governments Appoints New Executive Director
The Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG) Board of Directors has appointed Brian Probolsky to serve as the new executive director of the regional planning authority. Mr. Probolsky’s three-year term contract was unanimously approved at the September 25, 2025 meeting.
“From housing to transportation, OCCOG plays a critical role in shaping state and federally mandated planning efforts,” said Chairman John Gabbard. “With more than two decades of public sector executive leadership experience, Brian Probolsky will help ensure that Orange County’s voice is heard.”
Mr. Probolsky has a deep understanding of public policy, regional planning, and intergovernmental collaboration. His extensive background in regional government leadership includes founding and leading the OC Power Authority as its CEO, where he launched utility service to 250,000 customers and raised over $42 million in funding.
He was chief of staff to three County Supervisors and held other leadership positions at the County of Orange. Mr. Probolsky is currently chair of the Orange Countywide Oversight Board, as well as vice president and director of the Moulton Niguel Water District. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Maine at Presque Isle.
As OCCOG's chief administrative officer, Mr. Probolsky will focus on the organization’s core mission: convening jurisdictions throughout the County to address critical policy areas, including housing/land use, energy, mobility/transportation, air quality, and water issues. He will work to build a stronger, more unified voice for Orange County’s public agencies to advocate for the County in regional decision-making.
About the Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG):
OCCOG is a voluntary Joint Powers Authority (JPA) serving the County of Orange, its 34 cities, 25 special districts, and planning industry partners. OCCOG provides a platform for cooperation and technical support, aiming to speak with one voice on critical infrastructure planning and policy issues. The organization emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and tenacity in fighting tirelessly to ensure Orange County’s needs are met in all regional planning activities.