OCEAN CITY – Retirees of Ocean City indulged in many years of hard work and were acknowledged at this week’s Mayor and City Council meeting.
“The Mayor and Council are happy to be here today to recognize those employees that have worked so long for the town of Ocean City and have now chosen to enjoy their retirement which they are deserving to do and we are very proud of them,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “We are proud of the service they gave to our community and very proud of each of them individually.”
There have been 18 employees who have retired in the town of Ocean City since May 1. They have a total of 441 years of combined service to the town.
The four retirees present at this week’s meeting were recognized and awarded with proclamations from the Mayor and City Council, as well as the town’s Fire Marshall and Chief of Police.
Lance E. Collins retired on July 31 after 26 years of service as a Firefighter/Paramedic of the Ocean City Fire Department. Collins started his service with the town in 1983 and joined full time in 1984.
“Thanks to the town of Ocean City,” Collins said. “The town has been good to me.”
Sgt. Blair T. George retires on Oct. 31 from the Ocean City Police Department after 26 years of service. He joined the police force in 1984 and was promoted to private first class in 1997 and sergeant in 2004. He also served as an acting lieutenant in 2004 and 2006. He has received 12 Departmental Commendations for outstanding service in the line of duty.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Ocean City Police Department. I will miss the employees of the department and all other town employees,” said George. “I send my best wishes and good luck to all of my coworkers.”
Linda Marie Hilliard retires on Oct. 31 after 30 years of service in the Records Division of the Ocean City Police Department. She had earned many awards and citations for office duties including having the most thank you letters for service mailed into the department.
“Thanks to all that helped me to get where I am today,” said Hilliard. “Good luck and God Bless to all those that are left.”
Rosemary Sample also retires on Oct. 31 after 34 years of service. She started her service as a clerk in the town’s police department. She was promoted to records/personnel supervisor, and later became the departments Human Resources Coordinator. During her service in the Ocean City Police Department, she received many awards and certificates, as well as the Chief’s Award of Excellence.
“I would like to take this opportunity to let everyone know how much I have enjoyed working for the Town of Ocean City and its employees,” Sample said. “During my employment here I have gained valuable experience and knowledge that will continue on with me throughout the years to come. I wish you all success in the future, and I am grateful for having the opportunity to work for you and with you.”
Ocean City relies a great deal on their employees and their service, according to Meehan.
“We are a service community here in Ocean City and we couldn’t do what we do today or what we have done without the service of our employees,” Meehan said. “I thank you and I know the City Council thanks you for everything you have done to help make us the community we are today.”