After nearly four decades in local government, including 28 years serving the City of Walker, City Manager Darrel Schmalzel has announced his retirement.
Darrel has been a steady and thoughtful leader throughout years of growth and change. For residents, this has meant reliable services, careful planning, and a community focused on quality of life. For the business community, he has provided consistent leadership, clear processes, and a city that values local investment and partnership.
From his early days as Planning Director to over a decade as City Manager, Darrel has played a crucial role in shaping Walker into the friendly, stable, and business-supportive community it is today. His calm leadership and extensive knowledge of local government have had a lasting impact on our City and those who call it home.
Darrel will continue in his role until February 2026 as we begin the search for our next City Manager. We are grateful for his many years of service and wish him the best as he looks forward to spending time with family and embarking on new adventures.