VACAVILLE, Calif. – City of Vacaville City Manager Aaron Busch announces his retirement, effective May 23, 2025, after a distinguished career spanning 37 years in municipal government, including eight years of service to the City.
Aaron Busch graduated from Fresno State University earning a bachelor’s degree in geography with an emphasis in urban planning. His first local government role was with the City of Rancho Mirage, where he spent six years in the City’s Community Development Department as an Assistant/Associate Planner. Throughout the years, Aaron excelled in several key leadership positions managing community development, housing, code enforcement, redevelopment, and economic development services, among other responsibilities, in the Cities of Roseville, Yuba City, and Rancho Cordova.
In 2017, Aaron Busch joined the City of Vacaville as Assistant City Manager, overseeing the Community Development and Parks and Recreation Departments. His expertise in planning and development led to his appointment as City Manager in 2020, where he provided steady leadership through transformative projects and programs.
Reflecting on his time in Vacaville, Aaron reminisced, “I am incredibly proud of the amazing team I have had the privilege to lead and their commitment to serving our vibrant community with the support of our City Council. Together, we have navigated complex challenges with strategic and innovative approaches, prioritizing community-focused outcomes with an emphasis on Vacaville’s future. I am truly blessed and thankful to have been part of such a dedicated team and resilient community. I am confident the foundations we have built, supplemented with the incredible assets Vacaville offers, will benefit residents and businesses for generations to come.”
During his time in Vacaville, Aaron initiated and implemented the City’s Biotechnology and Advanced Manufacturing Initiative, attracting nearly $68 million in private investment so far. He created the COV Connect Community Engagement Program, which introduced new programs like the Vacaville Neighborhood Association and “Make a Difference Day.” During the COVID-19 pandemic, Aaron led efforts to distribute over $12 million in Federal ARPA funds to aid community recovery. Under his guidance, the City advanced major projects such as the Lower Lagoon Valley development, Fire Station 76, the OIR Police Department Audit, and critical public infrastructure improvements. He also completed pivotal plans, including the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Centennial Park Master Plan, Housing Element, and Green Tree Specific Plan, positioning Vacaville as a destination to live, work, and play.
“On behalf of the City Council, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Aaron Busch for his years of dedication and exemplary service,” shared City of Vacaville Mayor John Carli. “His leadership and vision have profoundly shaped Vacaville’s future, from fostering significant private investment through the Biotechnology and Advanced Manufacturing Initiative to enhancing community engagement with innovative programs like COV Connect. Under his guidance, the City has navigated unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, while advancing key projects. Aaron’s unwavering commitment to our community and his ability to bring people together to achieve meaningful outcomes have left a lasting legacy. We wish him and his family a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement.”
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Laura, share a blended family of 5 children and 4 grandsons (with a fifth on the way). Together, they enjoy RV camping, traveling, golfing, gardening, and watching the boys at all their activities.