City rejoices 20 years with Hallbauer

Monday, 18 February 2013 by Grayson Edds

Dozens of people showed up to the Harris Community Center on Wed., Jan. 30, to pay their respects and send Les Hallbauer into retirement with fond memories and a magnitude of gratitude for his work in the city of Belton over the past 20 years. The work of Les Hallbauer can be seen throughout the city - in its parks, roads, structures and attractions. He's also had a hand in the unseen projects that make Belton run smoothly – drainage systems, waterways, and structural stability.

So it's no surprise that people from all aspects of Belton came to pay respect to him during his retirement ceremony at the Harris Community Center on Wed., Jan. 30.

Mayor Jim Covington gave the welcome and proclamation for the ceremony.

"Les Hallbauer has been the heart of Public Works and this city for a long, long time," Covington said.

Among the long list of accomplishments during his career, Hallbauer has been credited with the development of Chisholm Trail Park, Quail Meadows Park, Harris Park, Nolan Creek Hike and Bike Trail, Miller Heights Park and the Harris Community Center.

Covington's proclamation also dedicated Jan. 31 to be forever known as Les Hallbauer Day.

"In recognition of his record of accomplishments, the citizens of Belton wish to extend their gratitude and appreciation to Les for his many years of tireless devotion to this community in making Belton a better place to live for years to come," Covington's proclamation read. "In recognition of his outstanding, loyal and dedicated service to the City of Belton and its citizens I call upon my fellow citizens to join me in wishing him well in his retirement."

Mayor Jim Covington read and presented a proclamation to Les Hallbauer during his retirement ceremony. County Judge Richard Cortese spoke on behalf of Bell County, wishing him well and thanking him for his service to not only Belton, but to Bell County. Belton's city manager, Sam Listi, and assistant city manager, Cristy Daniell, and assistant director of Public Works, Byron Sinclair were all eager to speak of Hallbauer's legacy to Belton.

"Les's legacy, his signature to quality is everywhere," Listi said.

A host of people had special thoughts and presentations for Les, including Trae Sutton and Mack Parker from KPA Engineers, mayor pro tem Marion Grayson, Belton planning director Erin Newcomer, executive director of BEDC Cynthia Hernandez, and Police Chief Gene Ellis.

"It's because of Les's vision and his passion that we so proudly drive people around town and show them all the beautiful things that Belton has to offer," Hernandez said.

• < Prev
• Next >