Fran Thomas retiring, new Pinckneyville clerk

Fran Thomas remembers that when she signed on as Pinckneyville City Clerk a well-known local politico suggested "don't unpack your bags; you may not be here that long."

That was 33 1/2 years ago.

For over three decades she has been the fiscal conscience of city hall.

She knows more about the inner workings of city government--in fact, the community--than any woman alive and on January 18, 2016 she will retire.

She possesses a very rare wit and wisdom that has gotten the city through countless challenges and because of that the town has always landed on its feet. She said she has thought about retirement since July, but stayed to again navigate the city through a recent employee issue.

She writes in her letter of resignation and retirement:

"It is with a heavy heart that I submit my resignation. The last 33 years as city clerk have been an adventure. However it is time for me to retire...I wish the city and all of its officials and employees much success in the coming years."

The Pinckneyville council voted Monday to hire Crystal Nussell as the new city clerk.