The public is invited to a retirement party for Buddy Smith and David Rockey, who are stepping down from their positions with the Town of New Pekin. The event will be Thursday, Dec. 12, beginning at 6 p.m., at Cornerstone Hall, 1500 East RC Morris Drive in Salem.
Buddy Smith currently serves as Utility Supervisor. He started working in 1992.
David Rockey is a Field Technician who began working for the town in 1993.
A statement released by the Town of New Pekin states, “For over 30 years these guys have been the heartbeat of the town. They have given up their time to make sure you have water when you turn on the faucet, plowed snow to make sure we could all travel safely and run the sewer system so the wastewater could be collected and treated. All times of day and night, these two men have kept the town streets and utilities operating.”
Town Of New Pekin Manager Jaden Stone said, “We are so very thankful for all their years of service. They will be greatly missed and extremely hard to replace.”
He added that after they leave their positions, even though the urge will be great during an emergency, Pekin residents should refrain from calling the two men for help.
“Let them enjoy their retirement,” Stone said humorously.
Stone encourages everyone to attend the retirement party to thank the gentlemen for all they have done and to wish them the very best during retirement.