Chad McLarty served as a Lafayette County supervisor for 12 years until the end of 2023, but that wasn’t his only job.

When he wasn’t helping county folks with a wide variety of issues, he was helping city folks with their water and sewer service.

On Tuesday, the Oxford Board of Aldermen read a resolution marking McLarty’s retirement after 26 years of service with the city and noting the mayor and Board of Aldermen’s appreciation of his hard work and dedication during those years.

McLarty was hired in April 1998 as a water service technician. Due to his willingness to learn and lead, he was later promoted to Water Service Coordinator, Superintendent of the Water Department and then Superintendent of the Water and Sewer Department.

“Chad McLarty’s calm, systematic approach to problem-solving and desire to provide the best service to the citizens of Oxford and customers of Oxford Utilities has positively contributed to the quality of life of the entire community,” states the resolution. “(His) willingness to perform any task and compassion for the citizens and visitors of the LOU community has instilled a servant mentality in the water and sewer division of Oxford Utilities.”

There will be a retirement party for McLarty from 2 to 4 p.m. on June 17 at the Oxford Conference Center.

McLarty said leaving the city was bittersweet for him.

“It’s going to be difficult to leave,” he said. “I’m not sure how to act waking up and not putting on a city uniform.”

McLarty is currently the owner of a private utility company, MC Construction. He said he plans on growing the company and is also starting a new company called TCS Jetting and Plumbing Service.

“I appreciate every opportunity you all have ever given me,” he told the board.