Santa Rosa conducted a nationwide search for its new utilities director, but it tapped someone close to home for the job. Effective Wednesday, David Guhin, 37, will replace Miles Ferris, who retires this week after 27 years with the city.

The directors of two of the largest Santa Rosa city departments will be retiring in December. Miles Ferris, director of the Utilities Department, steps down Dec. 12, and Marc Richardson, director of Recreation and Parks, will retire 10 days later. Both men have worked for the city for 27 years.