Commissioners honor Thomson and McMichael

With old business and new business to handle at Tuesday’s Board of Commissioners meeting, Chairmen Tom McMichael and Larry Thomson were recognized through special presentations and kind words to show how they have been appreciated for serving as chairmen for Houston County. One of those who recognized them was Colonel Brian Moore of Robins Air Force Base.

In his statement, Moore honored the men for, “The service you guys have given for over two decades and the integration that you’ve generated through your own actions with the help of the board in terms of supporting our Airmen and the base.” 

Moore thanked both McMichael and Thomson and presented them with a small token of appreciation. 

“I’m here today on behalf of the chamber to just say thank you,” said Ellen Palmer, CEO of the Perry Area Chamber of Commerce. 

Thomson has served as on the board for 20 and a half years, and McMichael has served for 24 years. Palmer expressed how both commissioners have spent an outstanding two decades of their time impacting the community and county. 

“Y’all come on down, and we’d like to present you with a free small token for that many years of service,” said Palmer. Thomson and McMichael were presented with the Perry Dogwood framed print. 

Sara Paulk, Director of the Houston County Public Library System gave a quick overview of how the library had been doing. 

“We continue to open, we continue to serve, and we continue to work with all our partners in the community to serve the people of Houston County,” stated Paulk. 

Paulk stated that the library could not do it without the support of their trustees and appointed commissioners. Thomson was recognized as being one of their greatest supporters. 

“Mr. Thomson, who has been a liaison to the library board, I just want to thank him as he’s transitioning to new adventures,” said Paulk. Thomson was thanked for his wisdom, his guidance and his support. 

Paulk presented Thomson with items; however, they were not items that he could keep. He was presented with library books that would go into all three branches of libraries in Houston County. There was a plate with Thomson’s name on it in each book. 

“Each book has a plate that says, ‘In honor of Larry Thomson and his service at Houston County public library,” stated Paulk. 

After being pictured with Thomson, Paulk said to the board that she hoped that the next appointed commissioner would be just as valuable as he had been to them. 

“Thanks for the presentation from the Perry City Chambers,” stated McMichael. 

Thomson thanked the Perry City Chamber, the library and Moore for his kind words. 

“Good words, but we’ll have more,” stated Commissioner Gail Robinson. “But always recognize the good work of Commissioner McMichael and Commissioner Thomson for all they have done.”  

Chairman Tommy Stalnaker announced, before adjourning the meeting, that there will be a groundbreaking for the State Court Building addition that will take place in December on the north end of the courthouse. 

Stalnaker addressed Commissioners Thomson and McMichael. “I want to tell the two of you, y’all have been a very important part of this process,” Stalnaker said. “And I thought it was very important that ground broke before either one of your terms were up in December.” 

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