Rick Haydon

City Manager Rick Haydon, who has spent two decades serving the city of Santa Maria, announced his retirement Aug. 16.

Haydon, 55, began his tenure in Santa Maria in 1996 as assistant city manager. He was promoted to his current position in late 2011.

During his time managing the city, Haydon addressed a number of issues including public safety concerns, improving quality of life and the construction of two new fire stations among numerous other accomplishments. He was also responsible for hiring 90 percent of all current city department heads.

“I think the timing is right and the city is growing right now,” said Haydon. “There’s a lot of development, and I’ve been very fortunate over the last 20 years in Santa Maria and made some great strides in all of our operating departments. I’ve been blessed with a very talented and amazing staff.”

Haydon will continue serving in his position until Dec. 5, 2017.

• Contact Matt Ackerman at intern@pacbiztimes.com.