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File #: 25-436    Name:
Type: Presentation/Proclamation Status: Agenda Ready
File created: 10/10/2025 In control: City Council
On agenda: 10/15/2025 Final action:
Enactment date: Enactment #:
Title: Presentation of Recognition to Retiring Public Works Director, Charles E. Swimley, Jr. (CLK)
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AGENDA TITLE:                                                                                                                                                                                             

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Presentation of Recognition to Retiring Public Works Director, Charles E. Swimley, Jr. (CLK)

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MEETING DATE:                     

October 15, 2025

 

PREPARED BY:                     

Olivia Nashed, City Clerk

 

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RECOMMENDED ACTION:

Presentation of Recognition to Retiring Public Works Director, Charles E. Swimley Jr.

 

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

Charles E. Swimley, Jr. has served the City of Lodi with distinction for over two decades, bringing leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to public service. He began his career with the City in 2001 as a Senior Civil Engineer, quickly earning the respect of his colleagues through his technical expertise and collaborative spirit.

 

In 2006, Mr. Swimley was promoted to Water Services Manager, where he played a critical role in overseeing the City's water infrastructure and ensuring the delivery of safe, reliable water services to the community.

Recognizing his leadership capabilities and broad knowledge of municipal operations, in 2010 Mr. Swimley was promoted to Deputy Public Works Director - Utilities and then in 2012 was promoted to Deputy Public Works Director/City Engineer. He was appointed to the position of Public Works Director in 2016. In this role, he has provided strategic oversight of the department's many divisions, including engineering, streets, water, wastewater, solid waste, fleet and facilities.

 

Throughout his 24 years of service, Charlie has consistently demonstrated professionalism, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of Lodi. He has been instrumental in modernizing infrastructure, fostering interdepartmental collaboration, and mentoring the next generation of public works professionals.

 

Charlie is not only respected for his expertise but beloved by his staff and colleagues for his kindness, approachability, and steady leadership. He cultivated a workplace culture grounded in mutual respect and continuous improvement, and his presence will be deeply missed by all.

 

His legacy is visible throughout the City - in the roads we drive, the systems that sustain daily life, and the teams he led with quiet confidence and enduring dedication.

 

Highlights and achievements of Mr. Swimley’s career include:

1.                     Completing the residential water meter program

2.                     Implementing SB1383

3.                     Completing the Harney Lane Overcrossing

4.                     Maintaining a sound financial position for the water and wastewater utilities while keeping rates competitive

5.                     Rehabilitating the Domestic Outfall Pipeline from the west city limits to the wastewater treatment plant (about 5.5 miles)

6.                     Maintaining an impeccable regulatory compliance record for the water and wastewater utilities

 

In Charlie’s own words:

“It has been an honor to serve the residents that live in Lodi and there have been many significant achievements along the way that I am proud of. But I am most proud to have served alongside the amazing men and women in the Public Works Department, a team that represents a highly competent work force grounded on trust, hard work and fiscal responsibility. I will forever be indebted to this fine crew for their relentless commitment and dedication to this community, and to which I have heavily relied upon to carry out my duties over the years.”

 

STRATEGIC VISION:

Not applicable.

 

FISCAL IMPACT:

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FUNDING AVAILABLE:

Not applicable.