In a heartfelt farewell during the Pelham City Council meeting on August 4, 2025, Tom, the city’s first finance director, reflected on his two decades of service and the significant growth of the city. His tenure, marked by the management of a capital budget exceeding $1 billion, has seen the completion of numerous projects that have shaped Pelham into a vibrant community.

Tom recounted the early days of his career in Pelham, highlighting the challenges he faced in modernizing the city’s financial systems. When he joined in 2005, the finance department was still using outdated methods, including manual ledger books and DOS-based software. Under his leadership, the city transitioned to a more efficient Windows-based accounting program, allowing for better financial management and transparency.

His retirement, set for March 29, 2025, coincides with significant personal milestones, as he noted the importance of the dates tied to his family. Tom expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Pelham’s success, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the community and its leaders.

The meeting also included a brief report from the city manager, who acknowledged Tom's contributions and the positive impact of his work on the city. While no proclamations were made, the council members and attendees shared a moment of appreciation for Tom’s dedication.

As Pelham looks to the future, the city council is tasked with continuing the momentum of growth and improvement that Tom helped establish, ensuring that Pelham remains a great place to live, work, and play.