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25 <br /> LEGACY OF THE UTILITY COMMISSION <br /> The most significant facet to the City/County Utility Commission's success is the <br /> quality of membership, leadership and support the group has been able to acquire. The <br /> early Commission Members achieved the goals for consolidation and efficient operation <br /> of the Water and Wastewater Systems. The success of this organization can be attributed <br /> to the quality of the people that served on the City/County Utility Commission. All <br /> members have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills. <br /> When the Commission was first formed, the City and County both saw the <br /> benefits of appointing people who has venerable personalities and who could work in a <br /> team effort. The Senior Staff Member to the Utility Commission, Assistant City <br /> Manager/Public Works, Mr. P. W. Swann, emphasized the importance of obtaining <br /> community leaders to serve on the Utility Commission; "they give instant credibility that <br /> brings honor to the Commission". (Swann, 94) This frame of mind continues to draw <br /> people to serve on the Commission. No person has turned down the opportunity to work <br /> on the Utility Commission since its formation. <br /> When looking at the achievements of the Utility Commission, it is important to <br /> highlight the leadership of Mr. John F. Watlington. He is the former City/County Utility <br /> Commission Chairperson who served for ten years and made a bold impact during the <br /> formative years of the organization. Mr. P. W. Swann, Assistant City Manager/Public <br /> Works, recalled the impact Mr. Watlington had on people and situations, "Mr. <br /> Watlington made it clear that the City/County Utility Commission would be run <br /> according to the original provisions and as a private enterprise, minus political <br /> interference". This leadership also allowed a highly effective support staff to evolve. Dr. <br /> Manson Meads, who succeeded Mr. Watlington as Commission Chairperson, emphasized <br /> the significant support the Commission received from Assistant City Manager/Public <br /> Works, Mr. P. W. Swann and Utilities Superintendent, Mr. Thomas Griffin. The Staff <br /> quickly discovered how seriously the City/County Utility Commission members took <br /> their volunteer responsibilities, and responded with a willingness to serve the <br /> Commission conscientiously. The delicate balance of members and supporting staff has <br /> been vital to the success of the City/County Commission. (Meads, Summer 94) <br /> 11 <br />