At the February 18, 2020, City Council meeting, Mayor Becker presented Larry Smith with a “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Before a packed house, he recognized Larry as a citizen who, over many years, has worked in ways that benefit our city. “Larry Smith,” he said, “is a man whose presence and influence have shaped the lives of countless citizens for more than 50 years.”
Best known for his key role in saving the Jacksonville hillsides from development, Mayor Becker noted that Larry was a founding board member of the Jacksonville Woodlands Association and has served as its Vice President and its President and is currently the Executive Director. Larry has also worked for 23 summers at Crater Lake National Park as a Park Ranger, is the City of Jacksonville Historian, leads group historical walks and hikes in around Jacksonville, and is the Town Crier. At the conclusion of the mayor’s remarks, Larry received a standing ovation from everyone in attendance.