Ron Rowland, Vacaville's assistant city manager and community development director, announced his retirement effective Nov. 1.

Article Launched: 04/26/2005 07:34:43 AM

After double duty, he will be retiring

By Tom Hall/Staff Writer

Ron Rowland, Vacaville's assistant city manager and community development director, announced his retirement effective Nov. 1.

Ron Rowland, Vacaville's assistant city manager and community development director, has announced his retirement, effective Nov. 1.

Rowland, who has been with the city since 1992, said it's time to do something different.
"It seems like the right time to retire and reflect on my future," the 56-year-old said.
Rowland has worked in community development in different cities for 27 years. He started with Vacaville in 1992 as the assistant director of community development. Five years ago, Rowland moved into the top position in that department.

When David Van Kirk took over Vacaville's city manager job in 2003, Rowland became assistant city manager - adding another set of duties to his job description. He said it's been worth it.
"I've had different jobs with the city and I've enjoyed them all," Rowland said. "It was actually pretty difficult to decide to retire, because I really enjoy working for Vacaville."

Van Kirk said the recruitment process for Rowland's successor already has been set in motion. Advertisements in industry publications will begin to appear in May, he said. He anticipates a five- to six-month process leading up to the hiring of a new community development director.
Van Kirk said Rowland, with whom he's worked for 13 years, will be a tough act to follow.
"I think he's one of the best in his profession," Van Kirk said. "He's just been unbelievable."
Van Kirk said Rowland brings a dimension of compromise and empathy to City Hall - much needed with the bevy of assorted projects the city's involved with.
"He's really had a knack at being a really calming influence," Van Kirk said.

Rowland said he and his wife plan to keep living in Vacaville. While he said he's likely done in public service, he said he hasn't ruled out the private sector. He said he'll take time come November to spend time with his family and ponder what's next.
"It seems like it might be enjoyable to do something else," he said.

Tom Hall can be reached at vacaville@thereporter.com.