AUBURN — Roland Miller, who has steered development in the city for 35 years, announced his retirement Friday. His last day will be at the end of November.

Miller started with the city on Jan. 7, 1980, as director of the community development department. He was promoted to director of economic development in December 2000.

A native of Wisconsin, Miller has played a significant role in the city’s biggest developments, including, according to a news release issued by the city:

* The heroic preservation of the historic buildings that line Main Street;

* The process and production of various municipal comprehensive plans and district plans;

* The development of the Mall District;

* The attraction and expansion of Auburn’s largest industries;

* The building and tenanting of Auburn’s first industrial parks;

* The development of the Intermodal Railroad Facility;

* The establishment of the Port of Auburn;

* The creation of healthy and high-quality affordable housing;

* The revitalization of the downtown riverfront.

“One thing that sets Roland apart from many economic development professionals is his motivation,” Eric Cousens, deputy director of planning and development, said in the release. “For Roland, it’s not about profit for himself or profit for just the individuals doing the project. He recognizes that people need to make money to keep doing projects, and what really motivates him is job creation and creating opportunity for others to better themselves.”

Miller sings in his church choir, is a tournament-level bridge player, and enjoys fishing, reading and spending time with his wife and three children.

The city will conduct a nationwide search for his replacement, according to the release.