Hatch to leave

City's development chief to seek job or retire, says King

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

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

Hatch, who was on jury duty Tuesday, could not be reached for comment.

During his time in Lodi, he has helped guide the city's General Plan update and plan for several large developments, including the future Reynolds Ranch, Southwest Gateway and Westside projects. Hatch's salary is $127,140, according to figures released by the city last year.

Several city leaders said they were not surprised by Hatch's decision, though they declined to elaborate on that point.

"I'll miss him," Mayor JoAnne Mounce said, describing Hatch, as several city leaders did, as a very personable leader. "I respect his decision. If he felt Lodi wasn't a good fit for him, it's his prerogative to find a place that is."

She added that she didn't know, and may never know, why he's leaving.

City Councilman Larry Hansen said he enjoyed working with Hatch, and wishes him well.

"I saw Randy as someone who tried very hard," Hansen said. "He clearly had a lot of experience. He delved into the assignments that he was given."

Regarding his work at the city, 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 community development chief for the city of Ceres, and as a planner for the city of Stockton, among other positions.

He has been away from City Hall in recent months due to health issues, working at home much of the time, King said.

The city fell behind late last year on its General Plan update, under Hatch's watch. Former Lodi Community Development Director Rad Bartlam was subsequently hired as a project manager to lead the update.

Mounce noted the project — which will serve as guide for the city's future growth — is now back on track and should be ready for a City Council vote by early 2009.

She said she did not think the city's hiring of Bartlam contributed to Hatch's departure.

Before he leaves, Hatch will continue to guide the planning process for the Wal-Mart Supercenter project, proposed for the southwest corner of Lower Sacramento Road and Kettleman Lane.

Additional economic and environmental studies for that development, also known as the Lodi Shopping Center, are tentatively set for review by the city's Planning Commission April 9, King said.

The council will have final approval on the project later in the year.

King said the city has already begun recruiting to fill Hatch's position. It will accept applications for the post through April 18.

Existing city staff and those outside the city will be considered, King added.

Contact reporter Chris Nichols at chrisn@lodinews.com.