In 1997, Bill Clinton was President, Titanic was in movie theaters and Luanne Felter began working for Symmes Township. Almost 28 years later, many things have changed in the world, but one has remained constant; Luanne’s continued service to the people of Symmes Township.
When the Assistant to the Administrator job opened in 1997, she decided to go for it. Luanne had worked in public service before and wanted to get back into the career. “Back then it was more like a secretarial position. I took dictation and things like that. Things have changed quite a bit in the job since then,” she said.
One of the biggest changes she has seen has been the growth of the township, both in population and the number of services it provides to residents. “Back then we only had three parks and maybe two events a year. Now we have nine events per year and have six parks plus some other public facilities, so there is a lot more going on these days,” Luanne said.
One of Luanne’s biggest hats is Events Coordinator. Whatever the event or time of year, it’s always been Luanne behind the scenes, working sometimes months in advance to make sure things go smoothly. Symmes Township Administrator Bill Pitman said that Luanne’s work is noticed and appreciated. “She is always willing to take on more tasks and continue to go the extra mile for the township and for our residents,” Pitman said.
Luanne said that she enjoyed the work as well. “It’s great to see all your planning come together and just be able to watch people enjoy what you helped bring together. That’s my reward. When you put together something like Operation Santa and you get to see the expressions on the faces of the kids when Santa comes off the fire truck, it’s very rewarding,” she said.
Another big part of Luanne’s job is keeping the public informed and engaged through the township’s website, monthly newsletter and Facebook page. “I enjoy doing the monthly newsletters to let people know what’s happening. It’s a chance to be a little creative,” she said.
Some of the other things Luanne has helped with are designed to bring joy to children and enhance their experiences at local parks. They include free “little libraries” where people can exchange books for free, a story walk where kids can read from a children’s book as they walk along a path and a sunflower field for people to admire.
When asked what her retirement plans are, she had a ready answer. “I’m going to travel. I have plans to go to Italy in September. I’ve never been to Europe before and I’m really looking forward to it. Both my grandparents came from there, so I’m going to go see where they came from and also go to Rome, Florence and Switzerland,” Luanne said.
And when she gets back home? “I’m going to work in my yard and maybe do some volunteering as well as do some things with my friends. I’m going to enjoy not being on a schedule.”
Township Trustee Phil Beck said "I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Luanne over the past 18 years. She has always been very approachable to the residents, businesses and her township colleagues, and she is extremely diligent and effective in accomplishing her many work responsibilities. Not only is Luanne the best public servant that Symmes Township could have hoped for, but she is a friend to all. We will miss her and wish her the very best in her new and exciting chapter in life!”
Pitman is one of six permanent and numerous temporary executives that Luanne has served over her tenure with the township. He was quick to sing her praises when asked about her upcoming retirement.
“She brings a wealth of knowledge to the job every day. 27 years’ worth of knowledge. She can tell you why something didn’t work a long time ago and why we had to change. That kind of knowledge is invaluable,” Pitman said. He added, “To have the years of experience and the knowledge of knowing who to call with a problem is invaluable. It saves time and helps you solve problems quicker.”
Bill has worked in the township for 31 years himself and has worked with and known Luanne for years. He said he’s very sorry to see her go and had a personal message for her. “Thanks for your years of dedication and of service, your knowledge and your friendship. You will be greatly missed, and we all wish you well as you enjoy your retirement.” Luanne said leaving her friends will be one of the most difficult things about retiring. “I enjoyed working with all of them. We had some fun times. I’m going to miss everyone, and I hope to keep in touch.”
Finally, when asked about the idea that she has helped literally thousands of people during her years of service, Luanne’s reply was typical of her caring and modest personality. She simply said: “I hope I helped make their lives better.” There isn’t much more you can ask from a dedicated public servant.