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TRYON–On Friday, December 30, the Town of Tryon held a drop-in reception for the local citizenry to say thank you and goodbye to departing Town Manager Zach Ollis, a Charlotte native, who is moving onto a similar position in Cramerton, N.C., closer to his hometown.

“I loved working for the Town of Tryon and will miss it,” Ollis said at the reception. “Me and my family plan to return as often as possible, especially for events like the Film Festival and Beerfest.”

A chilly, damp December day did not slow the turnout for the well-attended reception, which took place at 879 North Trade St. from 1:30-3:00 p.m. in the building that formerly housed the Frog & Swan. Folks from all over Polk County, and especially from the Town of Tryon, enjoyed refreshments while sharing their appreciation for the work Zach Ollis has done since taking the job in August of 2016. The entirety of the Town government attended, sharing its praise for Ollis. 

“In all my time as a commissioner, I’m always quick to say one of the best decisions I’ve made was in the hiring of Zach as town manager,” Town Commissioner Bill Ingham said. “We will surely miss him and his family.”

Michelle Newman, Tryon’s Director of Development, pointed out that she had not worked with Ollis very long, but it’s been easy to see that his passion for the Town of Tryon was phenomenal.

“In fact, just this morning, he stopped to help a motorist that was having car trouble,” Newman shared. “It’s just another example of his commitment.”

Chrelle Booker, the Mayor Pro Tempore, added, “Zach’s done a great job and is really loved by the community. We wish him all the best, and I just want to thank him for his outstanding service.”

Mayor Alan Peoples echoed the high praise for Ollis.  

“He was by far the best Town Manager we’ve had, and we’ve had some good ones,” Mayor Peoples said. “He was all around great with the financial side, working with the people, and he’d even hop on the truck if they were a man down.” 

“We’re all here today because we appreciate all he’s done and wish him and his family well in the future.”