BY KARISSA MILLER
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners recognized two long-time county employees for their dedication to the citizens of Iredell County earlier this week.
Board of Elections Director Becky Galliher and Purchasing Agent and Contracts Manager Dean Lail are both retiring after almost a half century of service combined.
Galliher recognized for work in Elections Office
Galliher began working in the Elections Office in 1995. At that time, the office was in the old courthouse in an area known as the “dungeon” and she shared a desk with the director.
In January 2000, Galliher was appointed director. During her tenure, she was a part of many changes in the election process. This included changes with election laws, new systems, equipment, locations of the Election Office and voter precincts. She also saw a large increase in the voter registration — from 42,000 voters in 1995 to over 129,000 in 2021.
While Galliher was a part of many changes for the County Board of Elections, one thing that was constant during her career was the integrity of the election process.
Upon her retirement, she was one of the most experienced elections directors in the state.
Galliher was joined by her husband Larry Galliher.
“It’s been an honor and a privilege and a joy to serve despite some of the more challenging elections,” Galliher said.
“Just always remember how truly important the elections office truly is to our democracy,” she added.
Lail praised for service in Veterans Service Office, Purchasing Department
Lail began working for the county in 1996 at the Veterans Service Office.
Chairman James Mallory shared some brief details about Lail’s history with the county, and explained he came with a serviceman’s heart, having served in the U.S. Army for at least 10 years of active duty.
He later went on to work in the county’s Purchasing Department as a purchasing specialist. After about five years, he became the purchasing agent for the county and has served in that role ever since.
“That’s one of those jobs that if everything is running perfectly you don’t know it exists. Things just happen. The number of contracts this county enters into and the length of those contracts, some 350 pages in length,” Mallory said.
Lail has a broad understanding of those contracts, Mallory said, and is familiar with the bidding process and must meet a number of stringent requirements.
After receiving a plaque of recognition, Lail thanked his staff, his wife and his family for their support. During retirement, he wants to make more memories and spend quality time with his family.