Newberry Councilman Edwin Wicker Announces Retirement
In the heart of Newberry, big changes are brewing. Edwin Wicker, a familiar face and dedicated member of the City Council, has shared his plans to retire after an impressive 13 years of service. Last week during a council meeting, he took a moment to reflect on his journey and announced that he will be stepping down effective September 23, 2024.
A Thoughtful Decision
Wicker, who has been a part of Newberry’s fabric for many years, stated, “After a lot of soul searching and thought, I have decided to retire from City Council.” His decision didn’t come easily. After working diligently for 55 years, he felt it was the right time for a new chapter, especially after the company he worked for was sold. He wants to devote more time to enjoy life alongside his wife, Tina, as they plan to move to Beech Mountain, North Carolina.
Emotional Farewell
Wicker candidly expressed his mixed feelings about leaving Newberry, saying, “I’ve lived in Newberry my whole life and it’s going to be a change with mixed emotions.” His contributions to the city go beyond just being a councilman; he’s watched Newberry grow and evolve over the years, and he takes great pride in what he has helped achieve.
Key Achievements
During his tenure, Edwin Wicker worked tirelessly on numerous projects to enhance the community. One of his biggest accomplishments included improvements to several of the city’s parks, notably the grand opening of the Newberry Recreation Complex and the Oakland Tennis Center. These developments have provided residents with vital recreational opportunities and spaces to enjoy.
Heartfelt Tributes
Mayor Foster Senn was quick to commend Wicker’s mentality and dedication, stating, “Edwin has been an outstanding city councilman. He’s been dedicated throughout to work for effective local government and to make Newberry better.” The Mayor also highlighted how Wicker’s contributions would leave a lasting legacy in Newberry, and expressed how much he would be missed by the council and the community.
Community Celebration
To honor his time and contributions to Newberry, a special reception will take place before the next council meeting on October 8 at 6:15 p.m. This gathering will be held in the lobby of City Hall and all community members are invited to attend and express their gratitude to Wicker for his years of service.
A Look Ahead
Following Wicker’s retirement announcement, City Manager Jason Taylor has been proactive in coordinating a smooth transition. He mentioned that he has been in touch with the Newberry County Election Commission, and a special election for Wicker’s seat in District 2 will be scheduled for December 17, 2024. The city is committed to keeping the community updated on the electoral process as it approaches.
Thank You, Edwin
As Newberry prepares to bid farewell to Councilman Wicker, it’s evident that his impact will be felt for years to come. The community is grateful for his dedication, passion, and friendship, and wishes him all the best in this exciting new phase of his life!
