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Adopt and present a resolution and plaque of appreciation honoring Dean Wilder, Probation Division Chief, upon his retirement from the Solano County Probation Department with 30 years of dedicated public service to Solano County (Chair Mashburn)
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Published Notice Required? Yes_________ No____X____
Public Hearing Required? Yes_________ No____X____
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Probation Department recommends the Board of Supervisors adopt and present a resolution and plaque of appreciation honoring Dean Wilder, Probation Division Chief, upon his retirement from the Solano County Probation Department with 30 years of dedicated public service to Solano County.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Dean Wilder began his employment with the Solano County Probation Department as a Deputy Probation Officer on October 24, 1994, assigned to the Adult Division. He was promoted to Supervising Deputy Probation Officer on October 21, 2007, where he assumed leadership of the Juvenile North County General Supervision Unit before becoming the Juvenile Placement Unit Supervisor in January 2010. Mr. Wilder was then promoted to Probation Services Manager on January 4, 2015. In this role, he oversaw the Centers for Positive Change (CPC), Post Release Community Supervision units, Adult General Supervision units, and the Vallejo Office. He also played a pivotal role in developing the Quality Assurance and Implementation Analyst position and the Project Manager position. In January 2022, he transitioned to manage programming at the Juvenile Detention Facility.
Mr. Wilder was last promoted to the position of Probation Division Chief on October 23, 2023, where he had oversight of the Juvenile Detention Facility. Mr. Wilder was an integral part of changes in the Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF), helping to develop the Reaching into Successful Endeavors (RISE) program for youth committed to a Secure Youth Treatment Facility in response to SB 823, as well as opening a Barber College.
Mr. Wilder demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Probation staff, managing the CARE Committee and the Probation Department Awards Committee (PDAC), establishing the Peer Support team, and serving as its Coordinator. His leadership and contributions earned him the Manager of the Year award in both 2018 and 2020. Additionally, Mr. Wilder actively contributed to the Courage Committee, promoting culturally responsive approaches. He mentored countless individuals, both officially and unofficially, offering support and guidance on issues both directly related to the department’s mission and matters impacting staff and their well-being.
Mr. Wilder’s collaborative nature fostered strong relationships with community partners and other agencies. He has been a respected and supportive team member, leaving a lasting, positive impact on all who had the privilege of working with him.
After 30 years of service, Mr. Wilder retired on December 28, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding service to the Department, its clients, and the staff. His dedication will be deeply missed.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by the department’s FY2024/25 Working Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2024/25 Working Budget. There is no additional impact to the General Fund.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board of Supervisors could choose not to adopt this resolution and plaque of appreciation honoring Dean Wilder for his 30 years of service; however, this alternative is not recommended, as it would be contrary to Solano County’s Employee Recognition Policy.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
There is no other agency involvement.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION