Herrell honored for service to Region 9

Louis Herrell is no stranger to community service, especially when it comes to his three decades as a board member with the Region 9 Planning & Development Council.

That achievement was recently celebrated when Region 9 Executive Director Carol Goolsby presented Herrell with a plaque in recognition of his 30 years tenure.

“He is always so dedicated and willing to help anyway possible. Even though he lives in the farthest end of our region that never stops him from attending meetings in Jefferson County,” Goolsby said. “He’s just a tremendous resource and we’re fortunate to have him.”

Herrell, a Morgan County Commission appointee and Paw Paw resident, is believed to be one of the longest serving council members, Goolsby said.

Being a board member has allowed him to see the progress made possible by Region 9 professionals, Herrell said. He recalled an early grant that came through the organization and was used for a park in Paw Paw, while another grant helped with the town’s water system.

“The Region 9 staff has a lot of experience that they use to help our communities,” Herrell said.

“When I was first appointed, J. Brown Norton was a member of the Morgan County Commission and he knew that I was already on several boards. Although I didn’t know too much about Region 9 then, once I’m on something I stick with it,” Herrell said.

“I think I’ve probably only missed one Region 9 meeting in 30 years,” he said, adding that he’s “probably driven thousands of miles” over the years in order to attend the regional meetings.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with these people because you feel like you’ve really accomplished something,” he said.
The Region 9 Council is comprised of representatives from Berkeley, Jefferson and Morgan counties. Its goal is to help local governments solve common problems, identify and apply for grants as well as assist with area-wide planning.