By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
It was scheduled as a Barton County Commission meeting, but
Wednesday’s meeting quickly turned into a Phil Hathcock appreciation gathering.
Hathcock publicly announced his resignation as Barton County Landfill
Director and Director of Facilities.
Hathcock has accepted a position as a solid waste director in Stafford,
Virginia, where he grew up.
"It's really difficult to leave," said Hathcock. "I really appreciate all the support I've had from department heads and staff. I enjoyed serving the public here. That made it a very hard decision to leave, but I think this is the best time for this to happen."
Hathcock served as the county’s director of operations from June 2017 to August
2021. The Barton County Commission voted 3-2 last August to adjust his
position.
Several county workers expressed their appreciation for Hathcock’s work,
including Health Director Karen Winkelman. Winkelman, holding back tears, noted Hathcock played an
important role in getting the county through the COVID-19 pandemic.
"You provided stability and a foundation during a very difficult time," said Winkelman. "We were faced with so many unknowns and fear, as was the community, he alleviated those fears. He has a gift of serving others unselfishly."
Along with commissioners, 911 Director Dena Popp, Sheriff Brian Bellendir and
former County Clerk Donna Zimmerman thanked Hathcock.
"The lesson that he has always left us with is...it will be fine, it will be fine," added Winkelman.
Jennifer Hamby has been selected to provide Interim Director services at the Landfill.
Listen below to Winkelman, Bellendir, Popp and Zimmerman share stories and thanks for Hathcock's time...