Syed Murtuza has been named the new director of the Public Works Department for the city.

Murtuza has been the assistant director since 2003, and will fill the role vacated by George Bagdon, who is retiring in August. Murtuza has 20 years experience working in the public sector, said City Manager Jim Nantell.

Among his recent accomplishments, Murtuza helped develop a wastewater master plan and negotiated $15 million in train-station improvements.

FOSTER CITY

Building permits required for residents replacing windows

Any residents looking to replace windows in their homes must get a building permit from the city, even if merely replacingone with an identical-sized window.

The permit process is an attempt by the city to enforce minimum egress requirements, in case of an emergency situation requiring people to enter or exit through the window. The permit fee is $33.80.

Any questions regarding the permit or requirements can be addressed to the Community Development Department at (650) 286-3200.

REDWOOD CITY

Port sees slowdown in business this fiscal year

Maritime business for the fiscal year ending June 30 was down 21.6 percent over last year at the Port of Redwood City, officials reported.Despite the slowdown, the port took in nearly 1.5 million metric tons of materials — the fourth highest in modern history.

The decrease in materials over last year mirrors the slump in housing and other building industries, which has resulted in less demand for cement, gypsum and construction materials — all import mainstays, Port Commission Chair Jack Castle said.