LULA – There was an air of celebration at the Lula City Council work session Monday night as city leaders and others paused to celebrate the birthday of one of the city’s councilmen.
“Tonight, we had the chance to celebrate Mordecai Wilson’s 94th birthday,” said Mayor Jim Grier. “Mordecai has been a valued member of this council for the last 17 years. He’s been a valued member of the community for much longer than that, and to be able to celebrate his contributions to the community in those 94 years was just a real joy tonight.”
Wilson, a World War II veteran, continues to be active in city government and in continuing his education at every opportunity. As part of his role as a councilman, he serves on the city’s utility committee, public safety committee, human resources committee, and zoning and planning committee.
“Mordecai has an insatiable thirst for learning, and he just wants to be able to know as much as he can to be able to contribute as much as he can,” Grier said. “He’s been a prime example for so many of us in the community for these many years with that desire to learn and do more.”
In fact, Wilson is six hours away from completing every training opportunity offered by the Georgia Municipal Association for elected officials.
Also present at Monday night’s work session was Gillsville Mayor Roy Turpin, who delivered his birthday greetings to Wilson.
“I appreciate him being on this council for so long,” Turpin told those gathered. “Also, for serving in the military. I understand that you’re a World War II veteran and I appreciate your service. If there’s anything I can ever help you with or do for you, just call me.”
Grier read a birthday letter from Banks County Commission Chairman Jimmy Hooper.
“On behalf of the 18,000 people who live in Banks County, I want to speak as one voice to say happy birthday to Mr. Wilson,” Hooper’s letter states. “To be as devoted as he is to improve the quality of life for the people of Lula is to be commended. It is clearly apparent that his tenure is nothing more than a ministry of service. Elected officials usually don’t know their impact on a community until they are long gone, but in Mr. Wilson’s case there is already evidence of his hard work and dedication.”
Sugar Hill Mayor Steve Edwards sent a birthday video to be played during Wilson’s party since that city’s council meeting conflicted with Wilson’s event.
Asked during the work session for his advice, Wilson said, “Never forget where you came from and who helped you get here.”
