Council Bids Farewell to Retiring Attorney
Retiring City Atty. John Torrance got exactly what he didn’t want at Monday’s City Council meeting: a farewell shindig complete with presents, praise, punch and pie.
Torrance, who attended his last council meeting Monday night, was visibly moved by the farewell and--true to form--said very little other than he would miss the job he has had for 14 years.
“I owe a lot to people here,” the 58-year-old Torrance said after receiving an armful of plaques from council members and a new set of luggage from the staff. “I’m going to miss it here.”
Each of the council members praised Torrance for his years of service and penchant for sharing his culinary talents with colleagues.
“I’m going to miss your cheese casserole and chocolate chip cookies,” said Councilwoman Barbara Williamson. “But even more so, I’m going to miss your advice and ability to keep us out of trouble.”
Torrance, who officially retired last Wednesday, will be replaced by former Lompoc City Atty. David Hirsch. He stayed on for a week as a consultant and plans to move to Arizona later this month.
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