NorCo Council's Ron Heckman's Parting Thoughts

Northampton County Council member Ron Heckman was at his last meeting as a member of the governing body on December 11. He was first elected to County Council in 1990 and served until 1998, when he was appointed by Executive Glenn Reibman as Human Services Director. He stayed in that job until January 2016. From there he went to work for Lehigh County but returned to NorCo Council in 2018. He twice served as Council President and three times as VP. He did not use his position in county government to further a political career in the state house or elsewhere. He was, in the best sense of the word, a servant to the public good. He could be remembered for many things. But if one thing stands out, he was an ardent advocate of the power of county council and its duty to provide oversight. This sometimes resulted in friction, but it stops the executive branch from growing too powerful. This unfortunately, has been a problem on all levels of government. Though I am critical of President Donald Trump, the road to autocracy began long before he was President.  

We need more Ron Heckmans in government. 

Plus, he has great hair.

Here's what he said on his way out the door. 

It's been my honor.

It was an honor to have been elected to county council three times, and it's been a privilege to serve.

And also, as the Director of Human Services, I want to thank the voters of the County for putting their trust in me all these times.

And I would especially thank my family, especially my wife, Margaret, sitting there with the camera for the work they've done on my behalf.

I've often told her, She doesn't believe it, but it's true.

If it hadn't been for her, I doubt if I would ever get elected. She's been with me through my ups and downs, and I can't say enough about that.

I thank the people I served with, past and present, for your support and comradeship.

I've always considered myself a lifelong learner, and I continue to learn new things.

In 1989, when I was one of the 10 Democrats in our primary, imy biggest fear was that I'd come at last. I worked hard in that race. Somehow, I didn't come in last.

36 years later, between Northampton and Lehigh counties, I believe it's time to move on, get fresh blood, and I just want to say to all, thank you, and I wish everyone the best going forward.

It's been my pleasure.

I think.

Thank you all.