County Administrator Matt Walker announced his retirement last week, effective March 31, 2026, after more than 32 years of service in Virginia local government — 17 years and 14 of those as the county administrator.
Walker took over the helm in 2012 when longtime county administrator Charlie Culley left to take over the county administrator’s job in Caroline County. Prior to that, Walker had worked as Middlesex County planning director for three years.
Saluda District representative and Middlesex County Board of Supervisors (MCBS) chairman Don Harris said that Walker has guided Middlesex County through a period of growth, innovation, and fiscal stability.
Among his accomplishments are:
- Establishing the Middlesex Broadband Authority and Middlesex Water Authority, expanding essential infrastructure to better serve residents.
- The replacement and upgrade of the county’s E911 radio system, strengthening emergency response and public safety.
- Developing robust tourism initiatives that elevated Middlesex as a destination and bolstered the local economy.
- Restoring fiscal vibrancy and building a strong general fund balance through prudent financial management, creativity, and sound stewardship.
During his tenure as county administrator, Middlesex County earned the Virginia Association of Counties Achievement Award and gained recognition as a regional leader within the Middle Peninsula, reflecting both innovation and collaboration in county government.
“The board of supervisors extends its congratulations to Matt on his retirement,” said Don Harris. “He has been an asset for the county for many years. Matt’s expertise, knowledge, leadership, and contacts across the state and locally have provided many benefits in shaping the vision of Middlesex County. MCBS recognizes Matt’s successful career and wishes him the best in his retirement.”
Honor
“It has been the honor of my life to serve Middlesex County and its people,” said Walker. “The progress we have made has only been possible through the dedication of our staff, the support of the board of supervisors, and the partnerships we have built with our community.
“After 32 years of being a part of public service, departing with pride, purpose, and persistence, I leave with a heart full of gratitude and a legacy built on service,” he said. “Public service isn’t just a job — it’s a lifelong commitment to something bigger than yourself and as the saying goes even if we cannot always do great things, we can do small things in a great way.”
Middlesex County Treasurer Traci Wright, said, “It has been a privilege to work alongside Matt for the past 10 years. His leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public service have made a lasting impact on Middlesex County and its residents.”
Commissioner of Revenue Mae Diggs stated, “Working with Matt Walker as commissioner for the last five years has truly been a great experience. When I first began working in the commissioner’s office in 2012 the county administrator baton was passed to Matt. It has been an honor and a privilege to observe Matt’s knowledge, experience and the care that he has for Middlesex County from start to finish.”
Following retirement, Walker said he plans to remain an active resident of Middlesex County. He looks forward to spending more time with his family and friends, continuing his community involvement through the Urbanna and Deltaville Masonic Lodges, the Middlesex County Kiwanis Club, and other civic groups. He added with a smile, “You never know, I may even become a volunteer fireman again, God willing and health allowing.”
