The St. Martin Parish Council has recognized outgoing St. Martinville Mayor Thomas Nelson for nearly four decades of service to the parish and city.
At the June 5 parish council meeting, President Chester Cedars presented Nelson, who leaves office on June 30, with a plaque honoring his efforts and dedication to public service. Nelson lost the April 28 mayoral run-off election to Melinda Mitchell.
Cedars said the legacy of Nelson’s admirable and successful tenure in parish leadership, then as mayor, “Sets an example for anyone involved in public service.” He has been St. Martinville mayor for 12 years and served on the parish council under both the Police Jury system and into the era of home rule after it was adopted in 2000.
His involvement in city and parish government totalled 38 years. He was the first minority member of the St. Martin Parish Police Jury and has been affiliated with numerous civic groups and associations. Cedars said Nelson’s contributions to the local scene are too numerous to delineate.
“Thomas Nelson has been an effective and dedicated public servant and his exemplary leadership skills will benefit the city and parish for years to come,” Cedars said.
