Three long-time employees say farewell

Three Laketown Township employees with a combined 72 years of service are retiring.

Manager Al Meshkin is retiring Jan. 3, 2025; Jenifer French is retiring as deputy clerk this month; and Charlene Fields is retiring as deputy treasurer this month.

Fields said it has been an honor to serve township residents for almost 25 years.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the best co-workers around in multiple roles,” she said. She started as recording secretary/administrative assistant, handled building permits, served as a rental coordinator for the Felt Mansion and then deputy treasurer.

“I’m grateful to have been appointed by three treasurers, including former Treasurer Chuck Reed, Gary Dewey, and current Treasurer Jim Johnson,” Fields said.

“I’ll be forever grateful to Al Meshkin for hiring me and the opportunities offered, my co-workers for our shared experiences and the citizens for the many memories. It’s truly been a memorable season of life,” she said.

Christina Foraker was sworn in on Dec. 10 as deputy treasurer.

French said she is grateful for her 13 years as deputy clerk.

“To the amazing election inspector team, thank you for your hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support you’ve given me throughout the years. Working alongside you has been a privilege, and I am endlessly grateful for the camaraderie and collaboration that made every challenge more manageable and every success more rewarding,” she said.

“To our staff, management and leadership, your guidance and trust have been invaluable in helping me serve the community to the best of my abilities.

“And to the community at large, thank you for the kindness, understanding, and encouragement you’ve shown over the years. Serving Laketown Township has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I am deeply appreciative of the relationships and memories we’ve built together,” she said.

Zoann Hallam was sworn in as deputy clerk on Dec. 4.

Meshkin announced his retirement in July after 35 years as township manager. His last day is Jan. 3, 2025.

Meshkin has overseen the growth and change in the township.

His tenure has included the addition of Wolters Woods Park, Sanctuary Woods Park, Huyser Farm Park and Shore Acres Park with a disc golf course and the Felt Mansion. The township has recently bought more land for Laketown Township Beach.

“In January I will leave the township with the best fund balance it has ever had, and an extremely well trained, courteous, efficient and effective township staff. Please take good care of both,” he wrote in his retirement letter.

The township board continues to search for a manager replacement.