The Warren County Board of County Commissioners honored Planning Director David K. Dech with a proclamation on his retirement after nearly 37 years, more than 30 as department head.

The Commissioners praised Dech for his knowledge and calm demeanor, noting he had been instrumental over the years in shaping the county and planning its future.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Dave get upset. He’s one of the most level people I know, and one of the most knowledgeable,” said Commissioner Director Jason J. Sarnoski, who has worked closely with Dech over the years on issues including transportation planning.

Dech led numerous significant planning initiatives for Warren County, including Strategic Growth Plans, Open Space Plans, Farmland Preservation Plans, Environmental Resource Inventories, and Transportation Master Plans, while guiding the county through three iterations of the State Plan and the implementation of the Highlands Act in 2008.

An avid cyclist, Dech has bicycled on every single street, alley and road in Warren County, gaining a ground-level perspective of land use that he utilized in his job, Sarnoski noted.

“There’s nothing you do not know about Warren County, probably because you biked it,” Commissioner Lori Ciesla said to Dech during his final Commissioners’ meeting, where for years he has been a fixture in the front row, delivering verbal reports on planning issues.

Commissioner James R. Kern III, a former Pohatcong mayor, said one of the great things Dech brought to the job was accessibility, as he always was ready to help local officials understand planning issues and interpret state development mandates for them.

“Your footprint is here and will be forever,” county Administrator Alex Lazorisak said to Dech.

Dech, who retires on June 27, thanked the current board and past boards of commissioners and freeholders for their support. He also credited Planning Department staff, saying the department’s accomplishments would not have been possible without their hard work.

The Commissioners also promoted Assistant Director Ryan Conklin to Planning Director at the meeting, noting he had big shoes to fill.

A Belvidere resident, Dech said he is training to run a half-marathon this fall.