Walworth County Administrator David Bretl has announced his retirement after 18 years as county government’s top staff employee. Bretl said he expects to step down during the first quarter of 2020, after the county board has chosen a successor. Bretl has been on the job since 2001.

“I am grateful for all of the support I have had here,” he said in an email expressing gratitude to county board members, county department heads, county staff and citizens. Bretl also serves as the county’s corporation counsel, or chief attorney —  duties that he said will be reassigned.

Bretl said he announced his retirement plans Aug. 30 to the county board and to county department heads.“I will be working with the board to ensure a smooth transition,” he said.

“Dave has been an excellent County Administrator. Walworth County has been very fortunate to have him. He has worked very hard for us, kept the Board informed of issues facing the county both good and bad. He has totally rearranged the administrative portion of the organization, making it very efficient cost controlled. Walworth County residents should be very proud of our Administrator and Support Staff for the way our County operates,” shared Jerry Grant, Walworth County Supervisor District 4.