Emotions run high at retirement coffee

PRESCOTT – Friday’s retirement coffee at the Nevada County Courthouse was emotional for those retiring as they had to fight back the tears.

The courtroom was packed with well-wishers, along with the incoming county officials who will replace those retiring. Lisa Loe wasn’t able to attend. However, Billie Loe, clerk in the Nevada County Clerk’s Office, Julie Oliver, Nevada County Clerk and Nevada County Judge Mark Glass were present. All were presented with plaques for their years of dedication and service to the county.

Cherie Wilson, a clerk in the County Clerk’s Office, acted as mistress of ceremonies, thanking everyone for coming and those retiring for their service.

Lisa Loe was the first to be recognized. She’s been with the county for 19 years, working in the treasurer’s office as a deputy treasurer until Susie Key took early retirement in 2020, at which time Loe finished her term.

Glass was next, with Wilson saying he worked for the county and served as judge for 11 years (though he’s been judge 12 years). During his time in office, Glass has renovated the courthouse with upgrades including new energy-efficient windows, lighting and a new heat and air system, along with getting the interior of the courthouse painted. He’s built bridges and was in office to oversee construction of the Nevada County Jail.

Oliver followed. She’s been clerk for 30 years and loves the city and county, Wilson said. Oliver has won numerous awards, including Citizen of the Year, Good Citizen, Best Boss and best Nevada County Elected Official. When Judge John Henry died, she took on the task of lighting the courthouse at Christmas in his memory. Oliver also rented a bucket truck and painted all of the store fronts down Hwy. 67. “Julie Oliver is absolutely the epitome of what a public servant should be.”

The final recognition was for Billie Loe, who’s worked for the county for 47 years, starting in the collector’s office and moving to the clerk’s office. Wilson said Loe knows more about county government than the government does.

After presenting the trio with plaques, Wilson said they need to be sure and no lose them as they make great casket pieces.