Chairman Durrence, Commissioner Shuman bid Tattnall Commission farewell

Both Chairman Ashley Durrence and Commissioner Daniel Shuman said their goodbyes at Monday’s Commission Meeting at the Tattnall County Courthouse.

County Manager Frank Murphy presented both with a plaque commending them for their service.

Chairman Durrence was elected during a special election in the fall of 2014. A few of his accomplishments include promoting transparency through the creation of a new Tattnall County website and other technologies, streamlined efficiency in the office, and expanding the fire departments into a coordinated partnership between the county and all of Tattnall County’s municipalities. The project, which Durrence pushed for as a Reidsville City Councilman, has saved the county considerable money. Murphy thanked Durrence for his ‘exceptional guidance and leadership’ for the Board of Commissioners over the last two years.

Commissioner Shuman has served on the Board of Commissioners for the last 16 years. Shuman was instrumental in the renovations of the Tattnall County Courthouse when the county government was expanding and the court was at risk of being moved elsewhere. Shuman also worked to facilitate resources for the Senior Services Center through Concerted Services.  Murphy said emotionally, “There were so many things along the way. We appreciate the many years of dedication and leadership to the Board of Commissioners and the citizens of Tattnall County. Shuman served as both the Vice Chairman of the Board and the Chairman of the Board in 2014.

Commissioner Bubba Burkhalter during his comments thanked both Durrence and Shuman for their service and promised to keep calling them about county business, teasing both that they “aren’t off the hook.” “I’m going to miss y’all,” he said, “and I’m going to call y’all more than you want.” Chief Magistrate Judge Eddie Anderson also mentioned that Commissioner Shuman was instrumental in helping save the hospital when the facility was in trouble.

The county staff prepared a snacks and treats for the two, their families, and members of the community to enjoy upon adjournment of the meeting.

Mr. Jackie Trim will be assuming the role of Chairman and Mr. Bobby Kennedy will fill the vacancy of Mr. Shuman beginning in January of 2017.