SENATE RESOLUTION 5

(By Senators Smith and Hamilton)

[Introduced January 12, 2023]

Honoring the public service of Dr. Richard Lechliter for the occasion of Mineral County Day at the Legislature.

Whereas, Dr. Richard Lechliter, more commonly known as "Doc", has been serving Mineral County and the surrounding region for almost six decades; and

Whereas, Dr. Richard Lechliter is a graduate of West Virginia University with a degree in Forest Recreation. He began his career in public service as a Ranger Naturalist and helped to develop the first nature center at Canaan Valley State Park; and

Whereas, Dr. Richard Lechliter's love of animals also encouraged him to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and opened Mountain Springs Veterinary Service, where for 20 years he hosted a rabies clinic for Mineral County; and

Whereas, In 2010, Dr. Richard Lechliter was elected as Commissioner of Mineral County and has held this position since. Dr. Richard Lechliter has held numerous leadership positions including Chair for the Board of Health, Chair of Farmland Protection Board, and Secretary of the Airport Authority; and

Whereas, Dr. Richard Lechliter's contributions to Mineral County are not limited to his professional paid positions. He has served in various volunteer roles, worked tirelessly to help improve the quality of life in our county and state. He has served as Mayor and City Councilman for the Town of Ridgeley, and has been a member of various civic organizations, including the Ridgeley Lions Club, Keyser Rotary Club, Fountain Ruritan Club, and Friends of Jennings Randolph Lake; and

Whereas, Mineral County is proud to acknowledge his lifetime accomplishments, and with great pride, name Dr. Richard "Doc" Lechliter, the 2023 Mineral County Day Honoree; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby recognizes the dedicated public service of Dr. Richard "Doc" Lechliter; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate congratulates Dr. Richard "Doc" Lechliter on the occasion of being named Mineral County Day Honoree; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to Dr. Richard "Doc" Lechliter, and Mineral County Chamber of Commerce.