Open House Honors Kelly Smith

Kelly Smith holds the award presented by NCRC Board members (L-R) Doug Harmon, Bill Gonyon and Lou Meeuwenberg

Photos by Melissa Homrich

The Newaygo County Road Commission held an open house for retiring Director Kelly Smith on Friday February 14th to commemorate his 35 years serving the citizens of Newaygo County.
The Three member Road Commission board honored him with a plaque as Lou Meeuwenberg heaped praise on the accomplishments and advancements completed under Smith’s tenure and our local state legislators also presented an award of recognition signed by them as well as the  Governor and Lt. Governor.
“Kelly  was a natural leader  at his position of manager of the Newaygo County Road Commission,” said Board member Bill Gonyon. “He not only served the county, but also held several positions over the years on the road association of Michigan. He will be missed by us,  and we all wish him well in his retirement.”
Board member Doug Harmon added, “Kelly is and loves to be a problem solver.It has been an honor and pleasure working with someone that loved, had compassion and lived his job 24/7.”

State Senator Jon Bumstead and State Rep Scott VanSingel flank Kelly Smith

The far reaching influence Smith has had in his 3 ½ decades with the organization was apparent as well wishers from county, township and city offices as well as members of other agencies filled the RC offices during the event.
Former Road Commission board member Dale Twing: 
“I had the privilege of working with Kelly for 8 years as a Road Commissioner and for another 8 years as Drain Commissioner and have known him all our lives. He has a very broad set of skills which has served him well in one of the hardest positions in government. His openness for new ideas and his willingness to collaborate with and help other government agencies has truly served this county well and saved its citizens a great deal of money. I have never seen any more dedication or effort put forth by an individual for his job in my many years of being involved with many organizations.”