City of Vacaville City Attorney Melinda Stewart has announced her retirement, effective late December 2025, marking the conclusion of a distinguished 30-year career with the City.
Melinda Stewart began her service in December 1995 as Deputy City Attorney, was promoted to Assistant City Attorney in 2003, and appointed as City Attorney in 2016. Throughout her tenure, she has provided steadfast legal counsel to the City Council, commissions, and staff while guiding the City through complex legal challenges and transformative projects.
Reflecting on her career, she shared, “It has been an incredible honor to serve the City of Vacaville for the past three decades. I have been privileged to work alongside talented and dedicated colleagues who share a commitment to our community’s well-being. From landmark projects like the redevelopment of the Nut Tree property and the development of Lagoon Valley to guiding the City through the legal complexities of unprecedented events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the City’s progress and resilience.”
Throughout her career with the City—along with the milestones she reflected on—Melinda Stewart played an instrumental role in landmark projects and initiatives, including:
- Negotiating key contracts, including those for Recology, transit services, cable and wireless services, and three city managers.
- Drafting the Community Safety Ordinance and Ordinances establishing the Hotel and Downtown Business Improvement Districts.
- Transition to by-district elections and expansion from a 5- to 7-member City Council.
- Preparing the first comprehensive Vacaville City Council Policies and Procedures.
- Navigating the legal complexities of unprecedented wildfires and civil unrest.
- Handling and overseeing claims and litigation, and peace officer personnel record protection.
- Advising on Measure M sales tax implementation.
“On behalf of the City Council, I extend our deepest appreciation to Melinda Stewart for her exceptional service and dedication,” said Mayor John Carli. “Having worked closely with Melinda during my time as Police Chief, I witnessed firsthand her legal expertise, professionalism, and dedication to serving Vacaville. Her steady counsel was invaluable in advancing City priorities and navigating complex legal challenges, including those impacting public safety. Her work has strengthened our governance, protected our community, and left an enduring impact on our City’s future.”
Vice Mayor Sarah Chapman added, “Melinda’s legacy is one of professionalism, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the people of Vacaville. Her ability to navigate complex legal issues with clarity and fairness has earned her the respect of City leadership, staff, and the community. We wish her the very best in her well-earned retirement.”
City Manager Savita Chaudhary reflected on her first six weeks with the City, sharing, “I have had the privilege of working closely with Melinda as we addressed key legal matters and navigated organizational transitions. In my short time here, her deep institutional knowledge, sound judgment, and collaborative spirit have been immediately evident. Melinda’s impact on Vacaville is lasting, and she has set a high standard for excellence in public service.”
Melinda plans to spend more time with family and remain active in the legal community. She leaves behind a legacy of legal excellence, collaborative leadership, and decades of service dedicated to supporting Vacaville’s vision for the future.