Levy County Commissioners John Meeks, Rock Meeks, Mike Joyner and Lilly Rooks applaud retiring Levy County Health Department Director Barbara Locke as Commission Chairman Matt Brooks presents her with a plaque recognizing 44 years of service to the county.

By Terry Witt – Spotlight Senior Reporter

                Longtime Health Department Director Barbara Locke was honored Tuesday by Levy County Commissioners for her 44 years of service to the county and its residents.

            “It’s been my pleasure, really. I think I’ve gotten more out of it than I’ve given and I thank you for your support,” Locke said.

            Commissioner John Meeks said he was too young to remember when Locke first came to work at the health department.

            “To put things in perspective, a month ago today I turned 44. I know how rough that’s been on me, I can’t imagine running the health department that long,” he said with a smile.

            “I probably gave you shots when you were a baby,” Locke responded.

            “I think you did,” Meeks said. “The characters you’ve worked with and the things you’ve done are amazing.”

            Commissioner Lilly Rooks and Meeks complimented Locke on her ability to help prepare the county for hurricanes.

            Meeks said he appreciated her professionalism working with him.

            “Even though we don’t always agree on stuff, we’ve always been cordial and got things done for what works for Levy County,” Meeks said.

            He thanked her for the improvements she and her staff have made at the health department, including the dental program. He said her accomplishments were all the more amazing considering the hostile environment for health departments created during the years of former Gov. Rick Scott.

            Meeks said she persevered and maintained the health department in the face of adversity, which was a testament to her leadership.

            “In 44 years, I’m sure you’ve seen a lot of changes. We hate to see you go. If there’s one blessing that came from this COVID, we got to keep you six extra months or so. I know you were slated to retire earlier. Thank you. This plaque is a small token of our appreciation,” Meeks said. 

            Locke said afterward she started her career in Levy County similar to the way she ended it – during a virus outbreak.

            “You know what, I started out on the tail end of swine flu in 1974 or ’75. There was a big swine flu outbreak and I started out at the end of it so I guess it is appropriate to end it now,” she said.

            Commission Chairman Matt Brooks said he had a very short time to get to know and work with Locke in an extremely challenging year, but he said he came to recognize her importance to the community.

            “I recognize the benefit of your service to our county and to your staff and your great leadership. My only regret is not being able to work with you longer and have that deeper relationship,” Brooks said. “I definitely want to express my gratitude and just thank you so much – I mean 44 years, that’s a lifetime commitment.”

            Rooks said Locke always came before the board fully prepared. She always stayed within her budget.

            “I know the costs. You operate three health departments and offer the services you offer and during the hurricane season you took a lot of pressure off us,” Rooks said.

            Commissioner Mike Joyner summed up Locke’s contributions using his own style of country humor.

            “You’re all doctor and half vet, nobody’s ever going to take your place,” Joyner said.

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Board of County Commission Regular Meeting December 8 2020; Posted December 8, 2020