After more than six years at the post, Ken Kerns will retire as Winchester city manager at the end of the year, he told the Winchester Board of Commissioners Tuesday.
The board cancelled both regular meetings in November because of election day and the Thanksgiving holiday week in favor of a special meeting Tuesday.
The board reluctantly approved a measure that accepts Kerns’ retirement effective Dec. 31.
“With extreme regret, I’m going to make a motion,” Mayor Ed Burtner said. Commissioner Kenny Book seconded the motion, echoing the mayor’s sentiment.
“This is not an easy decision,” Kerns said. “I wish I didn’t like working so well in Winchester, but I do. It’s been a labor of love for me. I’ve been in this business for 35 years and these last steps I’ve had have certainly been some of my best. And the main reason is because of employees in the city government, the mayor, commissioners — you all have been great to work with. I couldn’t have asked for a better situation.”
The commission thanked Kerns for his service.
“I have been so impressed with Ken on every level,” Commissioner Kitty Strode said. “I can’t thank you enough.”
“You’ve been a great city manager,” Commissioner Rich Beach said. “You’ve been a consummate gentleman.”
Commissioner Shannon Cox told Kerns he would be missed.
“I appreciate the job you’ve done,” he said.
Book said Kerns was the best city manager he’s worked with since joining the commission.
After the measure passed unamiously, Burtner told Kerns the commission appreciated him very much.
In other business, the commission also:
— Heard presentations from Robin Copper, chief member services officer of the Kentucky League of Cities and J.D. Chaney, chief governmental affairs officer of the Kentucky League of Cities.
— Approved a statement of support for the National Guard and Reserve.
— Approved a bid for demolition of 162 Magnolia St.
— Awarded a contract that will install curb and concrete flume on Crawford Court.
— Approved orders reappointing Carlean Hefner to the Winchester-Clark County Industrial Development Authority, Ann Humble to the Clark County-Winchester Heritage Commission, Charles Embry to the Housing Authority of Winchester, Lewis Willian to the Winchester-Clark County Parks and Recreation Board and Marshall DeShields, Roy Hudson and David Lawrence to the Winchester Licensing Board.
— Set the dates for the commissions swearing-in ceremony, Dec. 18, and the employee Christmas breakfast, Dec. 19. The board also rescheduled the Jan. 1, 2013 regular meeting to Jan. 8.
Contact Casey Castle at ccastle@winchestersun.com.
