By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – Normal Town Council members sang the praises of their retiring city manager Mark Peterson, who is capping what Mayor Chris Koos said was a “flawless run.”

“Frankly Mark, I’m going to really miss working with you,” said the mayor.

“It’s going to be hard,” Koos said.

Peterson said there have been a little more than 800 town council meetings since he was hired as Dave Anderson’s assistant city manager 30 years ago. Monday’s meeting was his last, and emotions got the best of Koos and Peterson.

Council member Kathleen Lorenz said Peterson was always available. Councilman R.C. McBride said Peterson showed integrity, and colleague Scott Preston called Peterson a visionary.

Fritzen thinks of Peterson as a team builder.

“You are the only person we hire, fire, manage. The rest of it is your operation,” said Fritzen, the council’s senior member.

“Obviously, we have access to you and we can question some of your decisions, but we haven’t had to do that much,” Fritzen said.

Peterson said public service is a noble calling that can be sobering and rewarding.

“I will miss you all more than I could possibly put into words,” said Peterson.

“I’ve enjoyed my daily interactions with each of you. You are the best of the best,” Peterson added.

His assistant Pamela Reece becomes city manager at the end of the month.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]