LEXINGTON — Mayor Eugene Parkison closed a 41-year tenure in Lexington government at Monday night’s village council meeting.
In recognition of all his work, council voted that the current Lexington municipal building be renamed to the “Mayor Eugene R. Parkison Village Hall.”
Challenger Brian White defeated Parkison 531-450, a difference of 81 votes, in November’s election.
But Parkison’s tenure, including 34 years as mayor, earned acknowledgement from numerous Richland County leaders and beyond.
Ohio Governor Mike Dewine and Lt. Governor John Husted also honored the mayor, as did Larry Obhhoff, President of the Ohio Senate, who sent a letter of recognition. The U.S. House of Representatives recognized Parkison’s service to the community, as did the Richland County Board of Commissioners who were in attendance and noted Parkinson as a source of influence in the county.
Further, the Richland County Regional Planning Commission spoke of the mayor being a figure that one can go to advice on local issues. Finally, the mayors of Richland County showed up to support Parkison and presented him with a scrapbook recapping his years of service.
“I’m really shocked with them naming the building after me, but I wasn’t expecting any of the other things,” Parkison said. “What makes me happy is everyone showing up, all the mayors and commissioners, really shows the community.”
Parkison said he is unsure if he will be involved in any government capacity going forward.
He said he was proud that Lexington was recognized as the 32nd safest small town in America by Safewise.
