VISTA, CA— Vista’s City Attorney Darold Pieper has announced his plan to retire, following a 53-year career, with the past 17 as Vista’s City Attorney. On Tuesday, May 24, 2022, the Vista City Council, during a regular scheduled meeting, officially congratulated and recognized Pieper on his upcoming retirement, effective in early June. Pieper has served as the City of Vista’s top legal counsel since 2005.
“Darold has been an integral part of the City of Vista and his contributions are far reaching. The City has seen many changes over the last two decades and Darold has been at the front guiding the City as the top legal advisor. I have been inspired by his leadership and his understanding of complex issues facing Vista. His commitment to protecting the legal interests of the City and its residents in second to none,” said Mayor Judy Ritter.
Pieper earned his Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Southern California School of Law and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California Los Angeles. Pieper has served as a member on numerous public service associations over the years. He has also received many honors, including the Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America; the Private Sector Award for Outstanding Contributions to the City Management Profession; and several from the League of California Cities.
In the City of Vista, among his many contributions, Pieper crafted Proposition L, the general half cent “Transaction and Use Tax” approved by voters in 2006. Prop L helped fund significant needs throughout the City, including the Civic Center, two new Fire Stations, rebuilding an existing Fire Station including additional Fire personnel, Vista Sports Park, and a new Stage House for the Moonlight Amphitheatre. Additionally, he personally crafted the Vista City Charter for Council approval, was key in developing the City’s Council districts, and was crucial in implementing Measure Z, a 2018 citizen’s initiative allowing up to eleven medical cannabis storefront retailers that has allowed the inclusion of cannabis tax revenue in the City’s operating budgets. Pieper also assisted in eradicating over 60 illegal cannabis dispensaries, as well as numerous illegal massage establishments, and was successful in the Supreme Court ruling in favor of the City in the 2012 State Building Trades Council prevailing wages lawsuit.
“Darold holds a tremendous amount of municipal legal knowledge,” said City Manager Patrick Johnson. “He has guided the City through many changes and has made a huge impact on how we do business and are represented in the community. He leaves a lasting legacy and will be missed.”
Pieper plans to continue to practice law on a limited basis and spend more time with his wife Barbara and their family. “It has been a privilege to work for the City and serve the residents of Vista. It has been my honor to serve the City Councils during my tenure and work with a great management team,” said Pieper.
The City Council has made Walter Chung, Assistant City Attorney, the Acting City Attorney until the Council makes a formal decision on Pieper’s replacement.
ABOUT VISTA: The City of Vista is a Charter Law city and was incorporated on January 28, 1963. Located just seven miles inland from the Pacific Ocean in northern San Diego County, the City of Vista has a perfect mild Mediterranean climate. Residents enjoy a wide range of year-round outdoor activities in a setting of gentle rolling hills and pleasant rural surroundings. Vista is approximately 19 square miles with a population of 98,381. The City handles sewer utilities and contracts with Vista Irrigation District for its water services. The City operates its own Fire Department and contracts with the San Diego Sheriff’s Department for law enforcement services.
