“I’m just so thankful that I have been able to serve our citizens of Montgomery County,” Lieberman said. “I’m going to still be in our community, trying to make a difference. I just appreciate Montgomery County, and I’m proud of all of you and the work we do.”
Lieberman was first elected to the commission in 2004. In November, the Democratic commissioner narrowly lost her race against Republican challenger and former Trotwood mayor Mary McDonald.
Montgomery County administrator Michael Colbert said Lieberman’s leadership saw the community through many stages: the 2008 recession, the 2019 tornadoes and even the COVID-19 pandemic.
“You have really been a leader in this community, and you have championed things that will live on,” Colbert said.
Commissioner Judy Dodge joined Lieberman on the commission in 2007. She said she ran for the seat after Lieberman called her and suggested she throw her hat in the ring.
“I’ve known Debbie for a long time,” Dodge said. “Thank you, you’ve been a dear, dear friend and a mentor and a big help to me all these years. I’ll miss you terribly, and it’s just not going to be the same.”
Lieberman said Tuesday that she’s still carving out her new path, but will be serving on multiple local boards. She will also be serving with federal district Judge Walter Rice as co-chairs of the Montgomery County Reentry Council through 2028. She said this is a topic she’s particularly passionate about.
Lieberman thanked her staff and others who worked with her during her time.
“We have a community that works together,” she said. “We don’t always see eye-to-eye, but we work together. And it makes our county a better place.”
Commissioner Carolyn Rice on Tuesday said she has learned a lot from Lieberman in the time they’ve worked with each other and thanked her service.
“I admire your service more than words can say. Sitting in this seat is a different perspective that you can’t understand until you sit here,” she told Lieberman. “There just aren’t words to say how much I value your friendship, your leadership, your contributions. You have made this community a better place.”
In 2025, Dodge will serve as the commission’s president and will be joined by commissioners Rice and McDonald. The Montgomery County commission will reconvene on Jan.7.
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