Dick Works attended his last meeting as an Allen County commissioner Tuesday morning.
Works was honored at a reception.
Kent Thompson, now a state representative, presented him with a certificate from the House commending him for his service.
“Dick is a smart person who served for all the right reasons,” Thompson said during the presentation.
Commission Chairman Jim Talkington gave Works a plaque commemorating his service.
Works was brief in his remarks, thanking those with whom he worked and concluding with a simple farewell: “It has been a great ride.”
Asked earlier what he thought his signature event was, Works pointed to the half-cent sales tax that made possible construction — and ongoing support — of the new Allen County Regional Hospital.
Commissioner Tom Williams noted he had his fingerprints on much more, including Allen County Airport, the landfill and county jail.
Works also has been active in regional and state organizations in support of counties.
“He and his knowledge will be missed,” said Williams. “But,” Works mused, “I’ll just be a phone call away.”
Making Works’ retirement even more notable is that his seat has been held by just two commissioners for 40 years, Works the past 24 and Keith Hobart, rural Moran, the previous 16.
Jerry Daniels will be sworn in to represent the south and most of eastern parts of the county next Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.
Commissioner Works completes 24 years
