Phillips to Close Career with City

By Desiree Parker Monday, February 15, 2010

Williamsburg City Attorney Joe Phillips, Jr., announced his retirement Thursday after 35 years of service.

Phillips, one of the longest serving city attorneys in the state, will continue on retainer with the city through fiscal year 2011, according to a press release.

“It would be impossible to describe adequately the contribution Joe Phillips has made both to the governance and very fabric of this city,” said Mayor Jeanne Zeidler. “A city attorney needs to have a thorough grasp of the law, of course, but what has made Joe a truly great city attorney is that in addition to his intellect and training he has brought to the job his excellent judgment, dedication and commitment to the people of Williamsburg. We are grateful for his years of service and for his willingness to continue to be available should we need to call on him.”

Phillips, once a planning commissioner, was recruited in 1974 by former mayor Vernon M. Geddy, Jr. for what was then a part-time position. He has served under six mayors during his career as city attorney.

He’s a native of Chase City, Virginia, and earned both his undergraduate and his law degree from William and Mary. Phillips joined local firm Carneal, Smith and Anderson in 1964 and stayed with them until 2007, when he was appointed full-time city attorney.

“It has been my privilege to represent our city and to address challenges and issues common to all Virginia localities, as well as other challenges and issue unique to our very special place – Williamsburg,” said Phillips. “In the course of it all, I can only hope that I have done my job well and have made some lasting contribution to the welfare of our city.”

Zeidler said she expects a successor will be named before July 1.