Longtime state legislator Arnold Simpson, recently retired from public office, was honored by the Covington City Commission tonight. From left are Commissioners Tim Downing and Denny Bowman, Simpson, Mayor Joe Meyer, and Commissioners Michelle Williams and Shannon Smith.
COVINGTON, Ky. - The last time the Kentucky General Assembly began a legislative session in Frankfort without Arnold Simpson in the chambers representing Covington, it was 1994.
Even before that, Simpson served as Covington’s city manager, assistant city manager and city solicitor - meaning that Simpson has been fighting for Covington’s residents, in one form or fashion, for almost four decades.
In thanks, tonight the Covington City Commission passed a resolution honoring Simpson for his long service.
“I don’t know anybody in Covington who doesn’t love you and respect you for what you’ve down for Covington and the region,” Commissioner Denny Bowman said, his comment being echoed in one way or another by Commissioners Tim Downing, Shannon Smith, and Michelle Williams.
Simpson, a Covington attorney, decided not to seek re-election this past November after winning 12 two-year terms to the Kentucky House of Representatives, all from the same legislative district in Covington.
As the resolution notes, Simpson’s standing in his district was so high that after winning his first race in 1994, he faced opposition only one time in the next 11 general elections.
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In brief remarks, Simpson told the audience that serving in government is an honorable line of work.
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In the legislature, he was a strong advocate for urban areas and sponsored or fought for an array of legislation on behalf of Covington. Several times he won statewide “Friend of Cities” awards from different organizations.
After the resolution was read, Simpson took a few minutes to thank the Commission and others at the City for their service. Contrary to what critics and naysayers think, he said, serving the public is honorable and rewarding work.
“I’m privileged to have worked in the public eye with people who strive every day to make this community a better place,” said Simpson, who still lives in the Old Seminary Square neighborhood with wife, Jo Ann.
The Commission then called a quick recess to pose for a picture with Simpson and a framed copy of his resolution.
Mayor Joe Meyer told Simpson that the retirement from elected office did not necessarily mean the end of a career, and he urged him to find ways to continue to be engaged in the city.
“We’re all just so much better off for your work,” the Mayor said.
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Simpson (in the black suit) accepts congratulations from the audience at the Covington City Commission meeting after a resolution in his honor was passed.
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