Residents and City officials said goodbye to Doris McMillan at a retirement ceremony honoring her for 26 years of work as a Water Clerk with the City of Newton Thursday at the Historic Newton Depot.
Gathered around tables with cake and refreshments, McMillan’s coworkers and friends celebrated her contributions to the city and wished her well in her retirement.
“We have appreciated her, and I have enjoyed working with her over the years,” City Clerk Charlene Evans said. “She will be back.”
Presenting McMillan with a plaque recognizing her years of service, Ward 5 Alderwoman Linda Wash said McMillan’s constant presence over the years had been a blessing for both residents and elected officials.
“On behalf of the mayor and the board of aldermen, we would like to let you know we value you and your services you have done for 26 years,” Wash said.
While the City of Newton presented McMillan with a plaque, city employees, the mayor and the Board of Aldermen also gave her a gift to show their appreciation for her work. Unwrapping the large box, McMillan buried her hands in her face after revealing the new KitchenAid stand mixer her coworkers bought for her to use.
“I’m not gonna bake no cakes to bring to City Hall,” she warned, laughing.
In the future, McMillan plans to come back to work at City Hall as a part time employee. Under the state retirement system, PERS, retired employees can work part time without sacrificing their pensions after a 90-day period.
“We know we’re going to see you again in the near future,” Wash said. “And we love you, and we appreciate you.”
