Roads Superintendent given send-off by commissioners
The McKinley County Board of Commissioners took time out of their Dec. 17 meeting to recognize two employees who have served the county for years.
Gerri Akeson, of McKinley County Adult Detention Center, and Jeff Irving, roads superintendent for McKinley County, were presented with plaques of appreciation for years of dedicated service.
Adult Detention Center Warden Tony Boyd said they would also recognize Akeson’s service during a department dinner Dec. 19. She has served with McKinley County for 25 years.
“Geri and Jeff served in probably two of the most challenging departments in McKinley County,” chairperson Bill Lee said.
Meanwhile, Irving, who has served as roads superintendent for seven years, is about to set off on a new journey.
“It has been an honor to be here and serve the residents of McKinley County and to serve with some of you,” Irving said. “Through a few tragedies and hardships over the past several years, God has called me to move on to something different. I’m going to be the maintenance director over at Broken Arrow Bible Ranch.”
Broken Arrow, located in Vanderwagen, is a faith ministry that has operated as a camp for decades, focused on Native youth in the surrounding areas and reservations. The ranch offers a number of events throughout the year, such as retreats in the winter and summer camps for children.
Irving said he brought his family with him to the first Board of Commissioners meeting he attended, and they were with him at his last meeting.
Lee offered his thanks on behalf of McKinley County, and Irving had his family gather with the commissioners to be recognized as well.
“[Irving] has done work with compassion and heart, trying to get the best thing done for the citizens of McKinley County,” Lee said.
By Cody Begaye
Sun Correspondent
