Tom Warner, the City of Davenport’s longtime corporation counsel, will retire effective Jan. 2, 2024, the city said in a news release issued Monday, Nov. 20.
Mr. Warner began working as a part-time attorney for the city in January 1995. He previously worked as a general business and tax lawyer in the private sector. In April 2007, he assumed the job of corporation counsel on an interim basis and was appointed to the position permanently in 2008.
During his tenure, Mr. Warner was involved in providing guidance and advice on a countless number of projects and initiatives. According to the release, he successfully argued a case involving the Davenport Police Department before the 8th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals and other cases before the Iowa Supreme Court and Iowa Court of Appeals.
Mr. Warner also is credited with writing and/or helping draft many state laws related to cities that eventually were signed by governors of both political parties. In 2002, he worked with the Iowa Attorney General’s Office to develop real estate contract sales disclosures to assist buyers in understanding the true terms of the transaction.
In 2004, Mr. Warner drafted Iowa Code Chapter 657A.10B and several other related state code provisions allowing cities to obtain ownership of abandoned and nuisance properties. In 2015, he drafted legislation and started a push for the state to increase immunity for cities related to recreational activities, in particular sledding, that resulted in new legislation.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity that the City of Davenport gave me to try to make a difference, and I am equally grateful for the outstanding coworkers, team members, involved citizens, external partners, and elected officials I have worked with over the years as well as the support from my family and friends,” Mr. Warner said in the release.
The city did not announce a succession plan in its release.
