Mitchell County Building Inspector Tommy Winchester (left) shakes the hand of Mitchell County Board of Commissioners Chair Matthew “Vern” Grindstaff during the board’s regular meeting on Monday, May 3 during which Winchester was honored as the county’s second employee of the month. (Submitted)
BAKERSVILLE — The Mitchell County Board of Commissioners during its regular meeting on Monday, May 3 honored its latest employee of the month, Mitchell County Building Inspector Tommy Winchester.
The commissioners honored Winchester early in the meeting, taking time to praise his work and present him with a commemorative plaque.
Board Chair Matthew “Vern” Grindstaff, who was on the board when Winchester was hired, said he always hears good things about his work in the community.
“Since his time of hire, I haven’t heard one citizen complain about Tommy Winchester or his attitude,” Grindstaff said. “I’ve truly never heard one person complain about this man.”
Commissioner Jeff Harding described Winchester as “very easy to work with” and added that during inspections of his and Darla Harding’s business, Lakeview Mercantile, Winchester has always been fair.
“He tells you what you need to do and he doesn’t hammer you,” Harding said. “He’s very approachable. On the other side, I appreciate you working so closely with us at Lakeview.”
Commissioner Harley Masters chimed in with her praise of Winchester and County Manager Tim Greene said he recently saw firsthand just how dedicated Winchester is to his duties.
“I stopped at Ingles and it was well after 6 p.m. at the time and who should I see but our building inspector doing an inspection for the Starbucks that’s going into Ingles,” Greene said. “Tommy is always willing to go above and beyond and we appreciate that very much.”
Winchester’s department evaluates construction in the county and makes sure it meets appropriate codes and standards, along with fire safety codes. He is assisted by Fire Inspector Kolby Silver and Secretary Misty Sparks.
Winchester becomes the second county employee of the month. Mitchell County Recreation Director Brock Duncan was tabbed as the first honoree during the board’s regular meeting in April.
At the time, the commissioners praised Duncan’s dedication to his craft and willingness to continue to hold safe, consistent youth sports competitions amid the ongoing pandemic.
Mitchell County Human Resources Director Glenda Shuffler was instrumental in starting the employee of the month program earlier this year. The program aims to recognize the outstanding performance of Mitchell County employees.