The County Press

Commissioner Cheryl Clark serves last meeting; is honored by county




District Court Judge Laura Cheger Barnard (right) presented a framed “Certificate of Achievement” to Cheryl Clark on behalf of the 71A District Court. Photo by Jeff Hogan

District Court Judge Laura Cheger Barnard (right) presented a framed “Certificate of Achievement” to Cheryl Clark on behalf of the 71A District Court. Photo by Jeff Hogan

LAPEER — Following Thursday’s meeting of the Lapeer County Board of Commissioners a reception was held in the Commission chambers for officials and the public to wish Cheryl Clark farewell from county government service.

The incumbent Democratic Commissioner of Marathon Township, who has represented Lapeer County’s District 1, comprised of Deerfield, Marathon and Rich townships along with the villages of Columbiaville and Otter Lake for 30 years, lost her seat on Nov. 6 to political newcomer 21-yearold Republican Brenden Miller of Deerfield Township.

The County Commission presented her with a resolution recognizing her service, as well as commemorative frosted glass plate that featured county insignia and a Christmas tree ornament of the historic county courthouse.

“It’s a tough day for me, but it’s really nice that so many people have come by to talk to me,” Clark said. Cake, cookies and punch were served during her goodbye party.

Lapeer County Commission Chairman Gary Roy (right) on Thursday congratulated outgoing Lapeer County Commissioner Cheryl Clark following a reading of an official resolution commemorating her 30 years of service. Photo by Nicholas Pugliese

Lapeer County Commission Chairman Gary Roy (right) on Thursday congratulated outgoing Lapeer County Commissioner Cheryl Clark following a reading of an official resolution commemorating her 30 years of service. Photo by Nicholas Pugliese

County and courthouse employees, as well as members of the public, dropped by to congratulate and thank Clark for her service to the community. Thursday’s County Commission meeting was her last meeting as a commissioner. During the meeting, Clark said her goal as an elected official was simply to make Lapeer County a better place than it was when she was first elected in 1989. “It’s been an honor and a pleasure to serve for 30 years,” she said. “I wanted to make the county a better place to live.”

Clark’s tenure as County Commissioner has been one of selfless dedication. During her 30 years’ experience, Clark served on several Boards and sub-committees, including Audit, Finance and Personnel Committees, the Veterans Board, Michigan Works, Southern Links Trailway Committee and the National Association of Counties. Clark was also instrumental in the planning of and construction of several county buildings, including the Community Mental Health building, the Sheriff’s Dept./ County Jail building and the Central Dispatch Building. Clark was also instrumental in the purchase of the John T. Rich Building, which now houses the County Health Dept. and the MSU Extension offices.

During Thursday’s County Commission meeting, several county elected officials took the opportunity to wish her well in her future endeavors. According to County Clerk Theresa Spencer, while her service to the county as Commissioner will be missed, Clark won’t want for things to do. “She has an amazing history of community service, I’m so excited to see what happens next,” said Spencer. “There’s no grass growing underneath her feet, she’s always doing something in the service of the public.”

Clark will continue to serve Lapeer County residents through a host or organizations and causes she’s affiliated with, including Kids in New Directions (KIND) and the Citizens Probation Council.

Lapeer County Undersheriff Jeremy Howe spoke before Commissioners Thursday morning, and said Clark’s tenure as an elected official is inspiring. “To do anything for 30 years is incredible,” he said. “The Sheriff’s Office is definitely going to miss her.” According to fellow Lapeer County Commissioner Lenny Schneider, who served alongside Clark for 16 years, Clark will leave a legacy on the Commission of service. “(Clark) is one of the finest people I’ve ever had the peasure of doing public service with,” he said.

In 2010, Clark was a nominee for the Lapeer Area Chamber’s Annual Citizen of the Year honor.

“It’s going to be different, that’s for sure, but she’ll still be around, so it’s not a farewell,” said Commissioner Linda Jarvis. “She’s irreplaceable. I don’t know who’s going to pick up the slack.”

“She will be missed on the Commission. She has done so much for the people of this county, but I know she will continue to serve in different capacities,” said County Commissioner Dyle Henning.