Below is the text from County Manager Jim Dinneen's resignation letter released Thursday:
June 13, 2018
Dear County Council Members,
They say time flies when you're having fun. If so, then that explains why the last 12 1/2 years in Volusia County have been fabulous and fleeting. The 17 different Council members I have worked for during this period have for the most part been some of the greatest people, with big hearts, I have ever met, trying to make their community better. Complementing and supporting this honorable group has been an evolving cadre of professional staff second to none anywhere in the public sector. That's why retiring from this group June 19, 2018 will be very bittersweet.
But as with all things, change takes place creating new opportunities for the organization and for myself. I have always wanted to embark upon at least one, if not two more career opportunities after my stint as Volusia County Manager. However, new and changing issues, challenges and the fear of leaving friends seemed to constantly postpone new adventures.
At last, the opportune time to retire has presented itself this summer. With finalizing another balanced budget, a recommendation for roll-back, and the notion of zero debt in the general fund within our grasp, the time has come to let a new manager lead. While I can happily walk away leaving the organization better and more fiscally sound then when I found it, I can do so (or so I think) with some semblance of youth on my side of the balance sheet.
Based upon my current contract and my desire to make the transition very professional and inviting, I will not be packing my bags until January 11, 2019. We will yet muster through a budget season, hurricane season, and election year together, allowing the Council ample time to follow whatever manager selection process it chooses and leaving a little time at the end of the year for relocation by the new leader, if necessary.
It's been a "hell of a ride" but all the really good ones come to an end too quickly.
Sincerely,
James T. Dinneen
County Manager