ROCKINGHAM — Gene Willard attended his final meeting Tuesday night after serving more than two decades on the city council.
Mayor John Hutchinson presented Willard with a plaque for his dedicated service to the city over the past 22 years.
“Since taking office on Nov. 4, 2003, Councilman Willard has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the values of transparency, progress and civic responsibility,” Hutchinson said. “His thoughtful decision making, steady presence and unwavering focus on the needs of Rockingham’s residents have left a lasting mark on the city.”
Hutchinson added that Willard has “remained a voice of reason and a champion for the people he serves.”
“His 22 years of service reflect not only his personal dedication, but also a profound belief in the importance of good governance and public trust,” Hutchinson continued. “As his term comes to a close … we honor the legacy of a true public servant and extend our gratitude for the countless hours he’s devoted to making Rockingham a better place to live, work and thrive.”
Willard said he was grateful for the trust bestowed by the constituents over the years.
“It has been my honor to be a small part of moving our city forward along with our council,” Willard said, naming several accomplishments including: the construction of the Hinson Lake Rotary Lodge; the Hitchcock Creek Blue Trail; luring Discovery Place Kids; renovating the police and fire departments; and the construction of the downtown campus for Richmond Community College.
Mayor John Hutchinson, right, presents a plaque to outgoing Rockingham City Council Member Gene Willard.
William R. Toler - Richmond Observer
“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the opportunity given to me … I only envision it becoming stronger with this council in the future.”
Councilman Bennett Deane, who has served alongside Willard the longest, said that together they have “done a lot of things in a small town that many other towns would be envious of — and many larger places would be envious of.”
“You’ve been a big part of that,” Deane said. “You’ve always been a rock-solid one we could count on to help us make those good decisions … I’ve enjoyed our time together.”
Both Councilwomen Debbie Wrenn and Holly Howe echoed the sentiment, although their time on the board with Willard has been much shorter.
Gene Willard receives a standing ovation from his fellow Rockingham City Council members on Nov. 18.
William R. Toler - Richmond Observer
City Manager Monty Crump said that Willard has always been “a guiding light.”
“I appreciate your leadership and dedication,” Crump said. “You’ve always been a friend … it means a lot.”
Hutchinson said he and Willard have been friends since before the current mayor first joined the council: “...wether it was cutting my hair or giving me advice, or just sitting down and talking about what might be good for the community.”
“You’ve been a very sincere and dedicated and steady member of the community … much longer than you’ve been on council,” Hutchinson continued, adding that Willard has made a positive impact while on the board.
“You’ve been a voice for parts of the community that the rest of us were not as familiar with and that’s been very valuable,” Hutchinson added. “There just are no words to express how much I appreciate the friendship, the dedication, the commitment, the loyalty to the city and we’ll definitely miss you.”
Willard decided not to run in the recent election and his vacating seat will be occupied by Greg Leberth, who was in the audience.
The mayor also presented a proclamation recognizing Veterans Day and National Home Care and Hospice Month, presenting the latter to Kristina Leyden and Julie Woody of Richmond County Hospice.
Mayor John Hutchinson presents a proclamation for National Home Care and Hospice Month to Kristina Leyden, left, and Julie Woody of Richmond County Hospice.
William R. Toler - Richmond Observer
