Gaskin earned bridge honor
Published 10:24 am Friday, November 6, 2009
South Point Mayor Bill Gaskin deserves the Robert C. Byrd treatment. And he will soon get at least a taste of it.
Byrd is the West Virginia Congressman who has dozens of buildings, bridges and other things in the state named in his honor. Gaskin is the 30-year leader of Lawrence County’s second largest community who will have a bridge that he worked hard to get named in his honor.
Originally set for Saturday, an official ribbon cutting and sign dedication has been pushed to 4 p.m. Sunday at the U.S. 52 overpass at Solida Road.
The event is hosted by the Greater Lawrence County Area Chamber of Commerce and the Lawrence Economic Development Corporation.
Gaskin is certainly deserving of this small token of appreciation. Economic development leaders and county officials credit Gaskin with huge roles in improving the village park, creating a boat ramp park, resurfacing the village streets, expanding water and sewer services, and developing the U.S. 52 overpass.
He has also represented Lawrence County and South Point well on numerous local and state committees including serving as president of the Ohio Mayors’ Association.
But if that isn’t convincing enough that Gaskin is deserving of this honor, you don’t have to look farther than the polls for additional proof.
Gaskin has been elected an amazing eight consecutive times, a staggering accomplishment in this political climate that often results in incumbents getting shown the door.
That alone indicates that the most important critics — the citizens of South Point — approve of Gaskin’s track record.
If he continues to serve and push the village for growth, Gaskin may give even Byrd a run for his money.