Court recognizes trio of county retirees

Three outgoing county employees were honored during Dec. 22’s Commissioner’s Court.

The retirees were Dana Hutcherson, who spent 19 years as a sheriff dispatcher, Carey Reed, who spent 28 years as the Bandera County Emergency Management Coordinator, and Bobby Harris, who spent 16 years as County Commissioner for Precinct Two.

Judge Richard Evans called on the trio to recognize them and presented them with tokens of appreciation.

“We have people that stay 20 or 30 years that show a lot of devotion and commitment,” said Evans. “When they leave, they leave a big void.”

Evans addressed Hutchinson, saying dispatchers have the “toughest job.”

“They hear us all. Yes, they hear everything,” Evans said.

When presenting to Reed, Evans quipped, “This is the only woman I’ve stayed out with all night besides my wife.”

Commissioner Jody Rutherford spoke about Harris.

“We’ve had our ups and downs, our good times and bad times but I appreciate what I’ve learned from him and for the work he’s done for this county,” said Rutherford. “Thank you, sir.”

Evans added, “He’s one of the best commissioners I’ve ever worked with. He will be missed.”

Harris responded, “It’s been an honor to work with this county judge. As of the 31st of this month, the county’s never been in better fiscal shape. I’m so proud to be a part of it.”

He continued, “In my 16 years, this Commissioner’s Court, judge and commissioners past and present, some of those who are gone or deceased now, we have built a new jail justice center, a new road and bridge department, a new animal control facility, and a new central EMS. Our response time for EMS has gone from 18.5 minutes to 10.3. These are major accomplishments. It’s been my honor and a pleasure to serve the citizens of Bandera County.”=