Read city manager’s retirement letter

Posted at 5:00 pm January 23, 2023
By Oak Ridge Today Staff Leave a Comment

This is a copy of the January 17 retirement letter from Oak Ridge City Manager Mark Watson to the seven Oak Ridge City Council members.

Since August of 2010, I have been proud to serve the City of Oak Ridge as its City Manager.

During that time, I have engaged the community in visionary changes that move the City toward a bright future creating economic vitality, jobs for our citizens, and a stronger quality of life for all.

Over the past twelve years, we have seen major changes and improvements to our internal organization and our external relationships with surrounding communities. This year, I was recognized for 45 years of public service by my profession. It is now time for me to announce my retirement. Serving in four states, eight cities, seven city manager positions and working for over 100 mayors and city council members, I believe it is time to begin the process of selecting a successor for Oak Ridge.

I am providing notice to the City for my last day to be May 5. I will look forward to assisting the Mayor and City Council on developing a selection process and timetable for the new City Manager. There are a number of issues to complete prior to my final day, and I will assist any way that I can.

I look forward to working with you for this transition. I also thank the City Council for their support and leadership for these past many years. Jenna and I will remain in the community but look forward to sharing more time together in the near future.

Respectfully,
Mark S. Watson
City Manager
City of Oak Ridge

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