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Crane retires from Enon council

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By Linda Collins

For the Herald

ENON – It was a bittersweet occasion for retiring Enon Village Councilman Jerry Crane, Tuesday, Dec. 8, as Mayor Tim Howard and village council members recognized him for his 25 years of service to the Village of Enon.

The ceremony included a special tributes and echoed the common sentiment that Crane’s dedication and commitment to the village would be missed. Howard praised Crane for his many contributions to village government, which began in 1982 when he was appointed to the Enon Planning Commission, followed by his appointment to village council in 1983 and election to council in 1984.

“Jerry has always been a sounding board for me when I needed feedback on situations or new ideas,” Howard said. “I will certainly miss his input on village matters, but I know he will always be available for giving advice.”

Howard pointed out that Crane made strides for the village during his four terms as mayor, including the constructing of the Hauck Meadows Water Storage Tank, and the installation of sewers and sidewalks on Main and Xenia Streets. However, Crane’s determination to see a long-range planning document developed for the village was, in Howard’s opinion, his biggest accomplishment.

“When I was the administrator, I followed that document and used it as a guide for planning and funding future village projects,” Howard said.

Councilman Elmer Beard acknowledged Crane for spearheading the renovation of the Enon Government Center in 1998 and 1999 and noted that Crane was instrumental in the installation of a backup generator at the water treatment plant, and the development of the fourth water well.

“We secured law enforcement grants for staffing that allowed us to save general fund money for the renovation of the government center without raising taxes,” Beard said. “We also transitioned into a full-time, professional village police department during Jerry’s tenure.”

When he returned to village council in 2012, along with Mayor Howard, Crane and his fellow council members addressed many concerns, which launched a total overhaul of many departments and management positions.

“The steadying influence of Jerry Crane has been instrumental in interviewing and hiring people who are truly interested in the best interests of the village and making it a better place. His many years of experience with local government and dealing with the other governmental entities have greatly benefited all the people in the village,” Councilman Rick Hanna said.

Crane, who is the father of three and grandfather of eight, thanked his wife, Dianne, and his family for their continuous support over the years.

“I appreciate Tim Howard’s support during the 15 years I worked as Enon’s mayor. I also thank the many members of council during my terms. A mayor is only as good as the team that works to get the job done in the most efficient way possible. I was fortunate to have such a team,” Crane said. “I wish future mayors and council members the best and ask them to never forget to preserve those hometown values that brought their families to this village in the first place.”

Linda Collins | For the Herald Jerry Crane during his last council meeting.
http://aimmedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2015/12/web1_Councilman-Jerry-Crane-sits-on-council-for-his-final-meeting.jpgLinda Collins | For the Herald Jerry Crane during his last council meeting.

Linda Collins is a freelance reporter for Greene County News.