Mayor Tom Watson awarded certificates of appreciation and plaques last week to commemorate outgoing City Commissioners Pam Smith-Wright and Larry Conder for their years of service to the community.
After years of serving as City Commissioners, Smith-Wright and Conder both lost in the mayoral election in November, effectively ending their roles in city government — at least for now.
Smith-Wright served five consecutive terms — a period of 10 years — as a City Commissioner, making her the longest-serving female in the City’s history. She was also elected as Owensboro’s first female Mayor Pro Tem in 2011.
Throughout her career, Smith-Wright has served on many boards and committees across the city and state. In 2007, she became the first African American to be elected president of the Kentucky AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary.
Smith-Wright won numerous awards during her time as a City Commissioner, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission State Citizenship Award, which was presented to her by former Gov. Steve Beshear. Smith-Wright also won the Wendell H. Ford Regional Leadership Award, the Dust Bowl Community Service Award, the NAACP Community Award, and the VFW Distinguished Service Award.
Conder served as a City Commissioner for the last two terms for a total of four years. Along with his wife Rosemary, the pair played huge roles in revitalizing downtown Owensboro. Together, they purchased and renovated several properties and have continued to assist many entrepreneurs in starting and owning their own businesses.
The Conder duo was named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce in 2010. Conder was also named a Distinguished Alumni for Brescia University in 2012.
Conder continues to serve on a number of committees and boards across the City of Owensboro.
Though Watson couldn’t personally hand Smith-Wright and Conder their certificates — as Tuesday’s Commission meeting was held virtually — he offered words of support and praise to both of his colleagues.
“People don’t really realize, being an elected official, how much goes into performing the duties for all our community, and not just specific areas,” he said. “I’ve learned a lot from Pam and Larry as to what’s best for our community. I’ve been very proud to serve with them. I thank them for their service, and I wish them all the best in the whole world as they move onto their next journey. It’s been a pleasure to serve with you.”
