by Susan Slater
Family, friends, co-workers, city officials, and community members gathered at Mouratoglou Academy Zephyrhills to celebrate the retirement of Todd Vande Berg, longtime Planning Director for the City of Zephyrhills. Vande Berg’s official last day with the city was April 30, 2026, closing a career that began on July 11, 1996. A graduate of Florida State University’s Geography and Urban Regional Planning program from 1984 to 1986, Vande Berg helped shape the city’s long-term vision during a period of significant growth. He was instrumental in advancing the industrial corridor and in helping attract economic opportunities such as Baducco to Zephyrhills.
“It was wonderful working with Todd through the Zephyrhills Economic Development Coalition,” said Vicki Wiggins, CEO, of the East Pasco Chamber. City Manager Billy Poe presented Vande Berg with a plaque stating, “He is a dedicated planner who balanced growth with the patience to do things the right way.” “Vande Berg consistently showed up, acted professionally, remained focused on his job, and left a lasting mark on the organization,” said Poe. Others in attendance also reflected on Vande Berg’s character and service.
Steve Spina of the City Council said, “Todd put his heart into the work.” Sandra Anderson, Human Resources and Risk Management Director, said that she enjoyed working with Vande Berg and described him as open-minded, team-oriented, and skilled at building strong working relationships. She noted that members of his staff advanced in their positions because of the way he helped his department flourish.
In thanking everyone for attending, Vande Berg said that after moving to Zephyrhills from Brandon, he found a great city and became involved in church and community life. He said Zephyrhills is a great place to raise children, praising its schools and describing it as a great place to live and work.
As he begins retirement from city government, Vande Berg is expected to remain active in the field through private-sector development work and possibly part-time consulting. He is looking forward to new opportunities, good projects, and time with his family. With his wife working as a teacher and having summers off, travel may also be part of the next chapter. ♥
