Cape Girardeau County officials say farewell to presiding commissioner

Cape Girardeau County officials and employees gathered at a reception Monday to say farewell to retiring Presiding Commissioner Gerald Jones.

Commissioner Paul Koeper, who joined the commission two years ago, said Jones has been a great resource.

"Gerald is my mentor. He helped me a lot. He's an educator, no doubt," Koeper said, adding that Jones should keep his phone handy to answer questions.

Presiding Commissioner Gerald Jones cuts into the cake during his retirement party on Monday, Dec. 13, 2010, at the County Office Building in Jackson, Mo. (Kristin Eberts)

Koeper said in addition to helping him learn more about the commission, Jones introduced him to the various state agencies the county works with regularly and encouraged him to become a more involved commissioner.

Commissioner Jay Purcell did not attend the reception.

Jones said while he has enjoyed his time as presiding commissioner, all good things must come to an end.

"It's been fun. We've had a good run," Jones said. "Thank you for the wonderful relationship. It's been great working with you guys."

Jones will have surgery Tuesday morning on his hip, and is not expected to return until Dec. 30, the day Clint Tracy will be sworn in as presiding commissioner.

Jones said once he recovers from his surgery, he will become general manager of Jones Heritage Farms, a restaurant and farm owned by his son.

The commission also recognized outgoing Auditor David Ludwig and outgoing Recorder of Deeds Janet Robert for their years of service to the county. Both were given an official commendation from the commission. Jones also presented Robert with a picture of the two of them on election night in November.

cbartholomew@semissourian.com

243-8600

Pertinent address:

1 Barton Square, Jackson, MO