Slozak bid formal farewell to City Council
By Barbara Arntsen
Published in News on January 19, 2005 2:11 PM
Goldsboro City Manager Richard Slozak bid a formal farewell to the City Council and city staff Tuesday during his last council meeting as city manager.
Slozak retired from the city in December but has been working this month on an interim basis. His last day on the job is Friday.
Slozak thanked former city managers who had been mentors to him, and said he was fortunate to have had the advice of late Mayor Hal Plonk.
"I also thank Harrell Everett, my confidant and advisor," Slozak said. "I value his insight and frankness."
Everett served as the city's attorney until July.
After reading a resolution of appreciation for Slozak, the council gave him a standing ovation.
Councilman Jackie Warrick thanked Slozak for his friendship and said the city was in a better place because of him.
"I complement you for working 18 years with seven bosses," said Councilman Chuck Allen. "That couldn't have been easy, but you handled it well."
Councilman Charles Williams said that in the nine years he has served on the board, Slozak had "enlightened me more than the Council of Government."
Slozak began his career in 1971 as an administrative assistant in the general government division. In 1974, he assumed the duties of deputy city clerk, in addition to the administrative assistant position. In 1977, he became federal aid coordinator and assistant to the city manager. In 1978, he became finance director. He served as finance director for the city until 1986, when he was appointed city manager.
"I thank God my journey in life brought me to Goldsboro," Slozak said. "I think being here has made me a better and more compassionate person."
Slozak thanked the staff for its hard work, especially his assistant, Tasha Logan. He said that he had enjoyed coming to work every single day.
"And now, for the last time," Slozak said, repeating a phrase that punctuated council meetings for years, "that concludes the city manager's report."