The Turlock City Council said a bittersweet farewell to Municipal Services Director Dan Madden last Tuesday, celebrating his nearly three decades of service and numerous outstanding achievements.

“This is not a pleasure, but it's an honor for me,” said Turlock Mayor John Lazar, noting he was “conflicted” about Madden's departure.

Madden has served the City of Turlock for 28 years. Since 2005, he has helmed the Turlock Municipal Services Department.

During his tenure, Madden oversaw the growth and development of Turlock's wastewater treatment plant into one of the state's finest. He also pioneered the reuse of biosolids and the city's Nutrilock co-compost program.

Thanks to Madden, Turlock has become a regional power in water resource issues, pursued the development of a surface water treatment plant, and developed a plan to provide recycled water to water-starved farmers on the county's west side.

Madden thanked current and past Turlock City Councils for their support, and his always-supportive staff.

“None of our accomplishments could have been without them,” Madden said.

Madden was recognized with a city proclamation honoring his retirement, and a commemorative clock reading, “Time cannot erase your many accomplishments with the City of Turlock.”

“I wish all of you the best in the future, and thank you again for the opportunity to serve Turlock and its citizens for so many years,” Madden said.

Madden will officially retire effective Sept. 3. He will be replaced by Municipal Services Deputy Director Michael Cooke.

On Tuesday, the Turlock City Council also:
• Postponed the planned appointment of representatives to the Mayor's Economic Development Task Force.
• In closed session, conferenced with labor negotiators.