DANVILLE HAS ITS FIRST new town manager since the United States was still getting used to its new president, Bill Clinton.
The United States was still getting used to its new president, Bill Clinton, the last time Danville had a new town manager.
The Danville Town Council this week appointed former assistant town manager Tai Williams as replacement for Joe Calabrigo, who retired after 32 years in the job.
Williams has nearly as much time in Danville. She first came aboard in 1996 as a land use planner, and after leaving for a short time to work at other agencies, she returned to Danville in 2001, working in transportation, economic development, and administrative and development services. She became assistant town manager in 2017.
“Tai will ensure a smooth transition from our current town manager to her new role,” said Mayor Renee Morgan, in a statement. “Her experience as the assistant town manager will help maintain continuity in leadership and services for the community. Joe’s succession planning, combined with Tai Williams expertise and dedication to our community, will facilitate a smooth transition between two exceptional civic leaders.”
Williams will only be the fourth town manager since Danville became incorporated in 1982.
The town said Williams has developed a reputation for her customer-centered approach to public service, which starts with what the community values and building systems to deliver on those expectations.
Calabrigo announced his retirement on April 15, and his 40-year career in Danville will conclude June 30.
Before becoming town manager, he had various roles including chief of planning, transportation director, administrative services director, and assistant town manager.
The town said Calabrigo played a key role in developing all three of the town’s general plans, both downtown master plans, and countless projects that helped shape Danville. As town manager, he delivered a balanced budget every year, including through three recessions and one pandemic.
Williams’ accomplishments include implementing technologies to streamline online permitting, launching Danville Town Talks to broaden civic engagement, and introducing internal performance tools. Williams also played a key role in securing more than $100 million in transportation funding for the TRAFFIX school bus program and the I-680 Auxiliary Lanes project to reduce congestion and enhance safety and livability on Danville’s local streets.
Her leadership has been recognized with multiple honors, including Employee of the Year and the Shared Leadership Award.
Williams is a longtime Danville resident and holds a Bachelor of Science in City and Regional Planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and an MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California.
The Town Council will present a proclamation to Calabrigo and acknowledge his service to the community during his final meeting as town manager on June 17.