A Columbia County employee was recognized for 50 years of service with the county on Tuesday, July 25.
Melvin Gibson, who has worked in the Roads and Bridges Department since 1973, is retiring this month after 50 years with the county. Commissioner and Public Works and Engineering Services Committee committee chair Gary Richardson said the county appreciates Gibson for his service and presented him with a proclamation.
“These years have been marked by exemplary and energetic performance in his duties and service to this County and to his colleagues in the oversight and maintenance of the County’s vast roadway network and rights of way. Whereas, the Columbia County Board of Commissioners, County Management, and Engineering Services Division wish to extend our deep appreciation to Melvin Gibson for his strong work ethic, mentorship of new employees, and the PRIDE he has shown in Columbia County throughout these years,” the proclamation states.
Gibson reminisced on how the county has changed over the last 50 years, stating how the department has grown, and he remembers when the government center was not on Ronald Regan Drive.
“I tell everybody right here this use to be farmland right here,” Gibson said. “We didn’t have the roads we’ve got now. Columbia County grew a whole lot in the last 50 years. We struggled a little bit and everything, but we made it through. I thank God that we did. I just want to thank everybody in Columbia County for everything that you did.”
Tim Holloway, roads and bridges manager, spoke about the dedication Gibson has to the county, stating that every year in October they had to talk to him about taking time off before the end of the year. After they would talk to him, he would bring in a piece of paper asking for eight hours off even though he had about 40 hours to use.
“His dedication has been unreal,” Holloway said. “Melvin started with the grass crew, there was only five people cutting grass out there, no weed eaters. If they had to trim around a roadside obstacle it was with sling blades. Three tractors and the crew out there. Today there is 18 people with 10 tractors. It’s unreal what we cut now compared to what Melvin and them was up against back then. Melvin is a dedicated employee. I would just like to say Melvin, it’s been a pleasure working with you these last 35 years and I wish you the best in your retirement.”
Road and Brides Operations Manager Larry McClure said he has worked with Gibson for 43 years. He stated that during Gibson’s time with the county, he has done many jobs.
“Melvin has done everything. He’s cut grass, fixed pot holes, put in driveway pipes, cleaned ditches. Literally he’s done very job possible in roads and bridges,” McClure said.
He called Gibson a great guy and said they are going to miss him very much.
Stephanie Hill is a staff writer covering Columbia County government for The Augusta Press. Reach her at stephanie@theaugustapress.com.
