Lodi chief planner to step down June 1

Randy Hatch — Lodi's planning chief since September 2005 — will step down June 1.

City Manager Blair King said today that Hatch will leave the city "to seek employment with another city or retire."

Hatch, who is on jury duty today, could not be reached for comment.

During his time in Lodi, Hatch helped guide the city's General Plan update and plan for several large developments, including the future Reynolds Ranch, Southwest Gateway and Westside projects.

King said the city was not surprised by Hatch's decision.

He added that Hatch is a very personable leader, who always likes conversation.

Regarding his performance, King said Hatch has "performed to the expectations."

Hatch oversees employees at the city's Community Development Department, which includes planning, building and community improvement staff.

Before coming to Lodi, Hatch served as the top planner for the city of Ceres, and as a planner for the city of Stockton, among other positions.

He has missed a considerable amount of work in recent months due to health issues. King noted, however, that Hatch has often been working from home.

King said the city has already begun recruiting to fill Hatch's position. It will be accepting applications for the top post through April 18, and hopes a replacement will be able to start by June 1.

Candidates from within and outside the city will be considered, he added.

For more on this story, see Wednesday's News-Sentinel.

Contact reporter Chris Nichols at chrisn@lodinews.com.

First published: Tuesday, March 25, 2008