By Erin Smith
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The Bladen County Board of Commissioners met on Monday night and recognized two longtime county employees for their retirement and recognized Commissioner Ray Britt for his tenure as board chairman.
The first to be recognized was Sgt. Rodney Hester with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. He was an employee for 30 years. Captain Jeff Singletary, representing the Sheriff’s Office said Sgt. Hester will return on a part-time basis in January.
“He is a good fellow and he is truly going to be missed,” said Captain Singletary. Commissioner Chairman Charles Ray Peterson presented a plaque recognizing Sgt. Hester for his service and thanked him for his service to the County. “Rodney, on behalf of the Bladen County Commissioners, we appreciate your service,” said Chairman Peterson.
Sgt. Hester declined to speak. He was joined by his wife, Tammie. The next to be recognized was Hubert Kinlaw who served as Bladen County Coroner for 32 years. Bladen County Manager Greg Martin said, “I’m pleased to have this opportunity to commend and thank Hubert Kinlaw for his 32 years of service to the citizens of Bladen County.”
Martin thanked Kinlaw for him being “devoted to the citizens of Bladen County.” He said, “It didn’t matter if it was the middle of the night, Mr. Kinlaw was available. The second thing is he was very cost conscious of the county’s tax dollars.” Chairman Peterson presented Kinlaw with a plaque recognizing his service and thanked for his service to the County.
Kinlaw said, “I have enjoyed every minute of what I have been doing. I didn’t know it would turn into as much time as it did when I got in. That was in 1986.” Kinlaw said he was named medical examiner in 1995. He said he also served 23 years with Elizabethtown Rescue. “I thank the citizens of Bladen County,” said Kinlaw. He was joined by his family.
The final recognition of the evening was for Commissioner Ray Britt who ended his term as Chairman. Martin said, “I just want to take a moment to thank Mr. Britt for his time as Chairman. I can’t thank you enough for the time you have put in outside of your business hours. You would take time away from your work to make sure you’re prepared before each meeting.”
Chairman Peterson, presented Commissioner Britt with a plaque recognizing his service and thanked him as well.
Following the recognitions, a reception was held.
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