The Danville Town Council appointed Tai Williams as the next Town Manager by adopting a resolution during the June 3 regular meeting. Williams has served as the Assistant Town Manager since 2017, and has worked for the Town for nearly 30 years. On July 1, she will become the fourth Town Manager since Danville’s incorporation in 1982, with Joe Calabrigo retiring after 32 years in the role.
Williams first joined the Town in 1996 as a land use planner, and after a leaving for a short time to work at other agencies, returned to Danville in 2001 and has since served executive roles in Transportation, Economic Development, Administrative Services, and Development Services. Over her leadership career and most recent role as Assistant Town Manager, Williams has developed a reputation for her customer-centered approach to public service, starting with what the community values and building systems to deliver on those expectations.
“Tai will ensure a smooth transition from our current Town Manager to her new role. Her experience as the assistant town manager will help maintain continuity in leadership and services for the community,” said Mayor Renee Morgan. “Joe’s succession planning, combined with Tai Williams expertise and dedication to our community, will facilitate a smooth transition between two exceptional civic leaders.”
Calabrigo announced his retirement April 15, and his 40-year career with the Town of Danville will conclude June 30. Calabrigo first joined the Town staff as Chief of Planning, and also served as Transportation Director, Administrative Services Director, and Assistant Town Manager. He played a key role in development of all three of the Town’s General Plans, both Downtown Master Plans, and countless planning documents that have shaped the Town. In his time as Town Manager, he has delivered a balanced budget every year, including through three recessions and one pandemic.
Williams’ accomplishments include implementing enterprise technologies to streamline online permitting, launching the Danville Town Talks website to broaden civic engagement, and introducing internal performance tools to strengthen service delivery and accountability. 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 June 17. Members of the public are invited to attend and meet incoming Town Manager Williams at the conclusion of the 5 p.m. meeting.
