Today was a day for goodbyes during the Halifax County Board of Commissioners meeting.

Commissioners said farewell to one of their own, Gene Minton, who did not file for reelection.

Commissioners remembered Minton by unveiling his photo in the boardroom.

“He did a great job,” Chairman James Pierce said. “He made tremendous contributions.”

Minton said he appreciated the recognition. “I have enjoyed every minute of my tenure.”

Minton, who served two years as chair, told commissioners and the audience, he tried to serve for the people, not a specific race, creed or color. “I have always tried to be fair and I hope that tradition will continue.”

Saying another goodbye, commissioners recognized the 33 year tenure of Dennis C. Richardson, who is retiring at the end of month as an income maintenance caseworker with the Department of Social Services.

Richardson, after a farewell speech, presented department Director Michael Felt with a roll of toilet tissue, something Felt gave him for tears he cried during heartbreaking moments of his job. He also showed the suit he wore on his job interview.

Commissioners also recognized the retirement Brenda Hudson from the health department as a public health nurse.

In other matters today the board:

Appointed Gene St. Claire to fill the unexpired term of David Shaffer on the Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District Board.

Approved the creation of voluntary and enhanced voluntary agricultural districts. The districts help give notice to people moving into farming communities that agricultural work, including spraying, noises and smells occur when they choose to move to these areas.