A house RESOLUTION

 

to recognize and honor Donnie L. Hardin, General Manager of the Cherokee County Board of Public Works, on the occasion of his retirement following nearly forty-three years of exemplary service and to extend best wishes for continued success and happiness in all his future endeavors.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives find it entirely fitting and proper to pause in their deliberations to recognize individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to their communities; and

 

Whereas, Donnie L. Hardin will retire on Friday, May 2, 2025, concluding more than four decades of dedicated service to the Board of Public Works in Cherokee County. Hired in 1982, Mr. Hardin became office manager in 1987 and was named general manager in 1995; and

 

Whereas, throughout his tenure, Mr. Hardin has been a pillar of the local utility, tirelessly working to ensure reliable service, affordable rates, and strong financial stewardship. Under his leadership, the Board of Public Works developed the infrastructure necessary to support economic growth and enhance the quality of life in Cherokee County; and

 

Whereas, a proud native of Cherokee County, Mr. Hardin is the son of the late Billy and Garnell Hardin.  He graduated from Gaffney High School with an impeccable twelve-year record of perfect attendance and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from the University of South Carolina; and

 

Whereas, in 1980, he married Lori Byars Hardin, the love of his life. Together they raised three lovely daughters, Meredith, Caroline, and Emilee and are blessed with five grandchildren. His devotion to family is matched by his deep faith and steadfast commitment to his church and community; and

 

Whereas, an active member of Cherokee Avenue Baptist Church, Mr. Hardin serves faithfully as a deacon, chair of both the Finance and Transportation committees, and as a member of the church council.  His dedication to community service is reflected in his many roles, including past president of Macedonia Water Works, commissioner for the Macedonia Volunteer Fire Department for thirty-five years, and chair of the Piedmont Municipal Power Agency Board. His most recent public service endeavor was his election to the Cherokee County Council in November of 2024; and

 

Whereas, in recognition of his extraordinary service, Mr. Hardin was inducted into the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame in 2022, and the Board of Public Works honored him by naming its East Frederick Street facility the Donnie L. Hardin Operations Center; and

 

Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives deeply appreciates Mr. Hardin's legacy of leadership, vision, and integrity. His work has had a profound and lasting impact on Cherokee County and the State of South Carolina; and

 

Whereas, as Mr. Hardin embarks on a well-earned retirement, the House takes great pleasure in wishing him many joyful years ahead, filled with relaxation, family, and new adventures.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor Donnie L. Hardin, general manager of the Cherokee County Board of Public Works, on the occasion of his retirement following nearly forty-three years of exemplary service and extend best wishes for continued success and happiness in all his future endeavors. 

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Donnie L. Hardin. 

----XX----