It has been eight years since Peachtree City Post 3 Councilwoman Kim Learnard took office. It was at the Dec. 7 council meeting that Learnard, who did not run for re-election, said goodbye to city staff and citizens. [Click here for her farewell column.]
Above, Peachtree City Council member Kim Learnard at the Dec. 7 meeting. Photo/Ben Nelms.
“I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the citizens of Peachtree City for the last eight years,” Learnard said tearfully.
Learnard during her remarks spoke about some of the many experiences she had and events she attended while serving on the council.
She also recounted occasions with which she interacted with departmental staff in a “hands-on” fashion so that she could learn more about their work. And she spoke about her time with numerous local organizations, and the occasions she spent with citizens during her eight years in office.
“Politics means knowing who can help me get the job done,” Learnard said.
Turning her remarks to the city’s public safety staff, Learnard, again near the point of tears, said, “In my 18 years of living in this community I’ve never felt unsafe. I want to say ‘thank you.’”
Learnard then geared her comments to city staff, saying that they are “second to none. I want to say ‘thank you.’”
Her remarks concluded with a word to her fellow council members. Again, her words carried an easily discernible, heartfelt ring.
“We’ve fought and argued, yet we all care about this city,” Learnard said.
The city’s governing charter limits council members to two full terms. Thus Learnard could not run again for her Post 3 seat on the council.
