Rockwall, TX (November 19, 2024) – On January 1, 2025, Bobby Gallana and Lorne Liechty will be sworn in as County Commissioners. Gallana will represent Precinct 1, replacing retiring Commissioner Cliff Sevier, and Liechty will represent Precinct 3, replacing retiring Commissioner Dennis Bailey.
Cliff Sevier was sworn in on 1/1/2013 and served 12 years on the Commissioners Court after a successful career in the US Army where he retired with the rank of Sergeant Major. He was elected to the Rockwall City Council before assuming his seat on the Court.
Commissioner Sevier feels his biggest accomplishment has been serving the people of Rockwall County and meeting their needs. He’s proud of his work with the Rockwall County Planning Consortium, where they completed numerous road projects. Additionally, Cliff played a role in approving and building the new county jail and the construction of a new Administration Building. For over four years, he has been working on securing two new courtrooms at the courthouse and hopes that the new court will be able to initiate this project next year. Cliff says the collaboration with employees and elected officials over the past 12 years is what he will miss the most.
Commissioner John Stacy on Cliff Sevier, “I have known Commissioner Sevier for a long time, and it has been an honor to work with him. I admire his commitment to his principles. He took the time to explain the origins of his ideas and the reasoning behind his beliefs. Even when we disagreed, he was always professional and polite. I wish him nothing but the best! I hope he enjoys spending time with Teresa and their children in retirement. His service to this County is something he can always be proud of.”
Commissioner Dana Macalik on Cliff Sevier, “You and I have had similar paths in public service, and I often reflect on this. We served on the Rockwall City Council and now in Rockwall County. During my two years on the Commissioners Court with you, I have come to admire and respect the hard work you have put into your long career from your military service, protecting Americans’ freedoms, to your corporate career, and now, as you retire, the work you have accomplished here at the County in safeguarding the public’s trust and serving the community. Cliff, you have made a significant impact as a mentor to me, providing opportunities for us to chat and review County business and the various options and choices we had to consider. In closing, I want to say that you are a true public servant who has touched many lives, ensuring security, health, and economic growth in our community. Happy retirement!”
Dennis Bailey was sworn in on 1/1/2009 and served for 16 years on the Commissioners Court after success as a former mayor of Heath and lobbyist for AT&T.
As a County Commissioner, Bailey negotiated an interlocal agreement with all the cities in Rockwall County to join an interoperability radio network. This network enables different radio systems to communicate and exchange data in real time, which is crucial for public safety and emergency response. Bailey feels this is the most important decision made for public safety to date.
Bailey was selected by Rockwall Commissioners Court to be the Owner’s Representative as the link between the Court and the parties involved in constructing the new courthouse in 2009. Bailey worked to establish Rockwall County Court at Law #2 and a new District Court for the County.
He has served as the lead negotiator and Owner’s Representative during the construction of the new county jail facility.
Bailey has secured funding for various road, bridge, and transportation projects.
Commissioner Bailey was nominated to serve at the largest public power pool for government entities in the State of Texas by the Communities of Urban Counties and was elected. A Public Power Pool is a non-profit political subdivision corporation, created by local governments in Texas, designed to save taxpayer money by aggregating power usage to procure the best power contracts at the lowest cost. He served on the Board for 16 years. Today, he serves as the Vice Chairman.
He served with four different Rockwall County Judges.
Commissioner John Stacy on Dennis Bailey, “Commissioner Bailey took on a leadership role when I joined the Court. As the senior member, he welcomed three new members all at once. I have enjoyed his stewardship and knowledge of issues during our two years of service together. I have nothing but respect for his service to this community and wish him all the best as he embarks on the next chapter of his life in retirement.”
Commissioner Dana Macalik on Dennis Bailey, “Our history dates back to the 1980s when the Baileys moved to Heath. I first remember meeting you, Kathy, and Jon during that time. You quickly established yourself as a leader and public servant. Through your work on various boards, commissions, the City Council, and community service programs, you have exemplified the true meaning of service. Your dedication and passion have always been evident. Although you spent many years in corporate America and built a successful career, your principles, values, and goals always focused on being a public servant and pursuing what is best for the community. God does not call a person to service without equipping them; Dennis, your faith in Christ exemplifies your commitment to the government of Rockwall County. Jesus teaches that a true leader should be both a helper and a servant. Over the past two years, I have had the honor of witnessing your commitment, service, and hard work on behalf of the citizens of Rockwall County. I am grateful to call you my friend and mentor. I wish you all the best in your retirement. Enjoy plenty of fishing and playing dominoes!”
County Judge Frank New sums up the service of Commissioners Sevier and Bailey. “Serving the public is often a hard but rewarding experience. Bailey and Sevier have been in public service long enough to warrant a well-deserved retirement. I wish them both health and happiness and pray they can enjoy more time with their families. I wish them well in all they do and thank them for their service.”
A reception honoring the service of Sevier and Bailey will follow the Commissioners Court meeting on November 26, 2024.
Submitted press release by Jim Barto, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News. Courtesy photos.
Rockwall County Commissioners Cliff Sevier and Dennis Bailey set to retire added by Melanie M on
View all posts by Melanie M →