By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Crenshaw County Administrator David Smyth has retired after 18 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Crenshaw County. Smyth, who joined the commissioner’s office as administrator in 2005, worked with five different county commissions during his tenure. Charlie Sankey, Jr. is the only Commissioner to serve throughout Smyth’s 18-year term, having served three terms as Chairman.

Smyth worked closely with the commissioners on various courthouse renovations, several road and bridge projects, and 11 Community Development Block Grants. 

Smyth also implemented a direct deposit program for employees, a temporary premium pay program, and many long-term bond issuances. Despite numerous challenges, Smyth takes pride in the fact that there were never any problems with audits during his tenure.

“During the 18 years I worked for the County, one thing that I am most proud of and that stands out the most to me, is that we never had a finding or a problem with any audits,” Smyth said.  “The State of Alabama Examiners of Public Accounts  division was always very complimentary of my office and staff on doing our jobs and doing them correctly while being good stewards of the taxpayer’s money.”

A reception to honor Smyth was held March 31 in the Commission Courtroom. Present to share a few words about Smyth were the commissioners and their wives, along with Smyth’s wife Becky, daughter Courtney, and brothers Mark and Randy. 

Dustin Retherford, Congressman Barry Moore’s assistant, presented Smyth with a resolution adopted by the United States House of Representatives. Smyth expressed his gratitude during an emotional farewell and thanked office staff for their hard work in preparing the event, saying he felt confident he was leaving the County in good hands.

During Smyth’s farewell, Crenshaw County Commission Vice Chairman Raymond McGough presented a resolution praising Smyth’s excellent service and highlighting his accomplishments. Smyth’s successor, Dawn Rayborn, is looking forward to her new position as County Administrator. During the retirement reception, she gave a welcome on behalf of the Crenshaw County Commission office and expressed her gratitude for what she has learned from Smyth. 

“David will be greatly missed here in the courthouse,” Rayborn said. “I have personally worked under him for 16 of his 18 years as administrator. I am excited to be taking his place but I sure have some big shoes to fill and am eager to put the things I’ve learned from over the years to use.”