WOODSTOCK – Former public works Director John Isbell will assemble the department’s 2013-14 budget despite health problems that forced his early retirement.

Isbell announced last year he would end his 28-year tenure as head of public works after assembling the budget. But “medical issues” forced Isbell to retire in late November, City Manager Tim Clifton said.

The city has contracted with Isbell to complete the department budget, which consists of eight divisions. Jeff Van Landuyt, formerly assistant public works director, is interim director.