L.M. Duncan's retirement was a brief one.
The City of Jonesboro is rehiring its former chief operations officer to his old position – less than a month after he retired.
Duncan spoke with Mayor Harold Perrin on Sunday. Duncan said he offered to return to the city, knowing the workload faced by the city in the wake of the May 24 flood.
"I left on Friday and the storm struck on Tuesday," said Duncan, who is picking up where he left off after 5 1/2 years in Perrin's administration. "I knew Jonesboro was going through a lot of problems, and the mayor felt like I could help. I feel like I can, and I want to help."
Perrin said he is pleased and relieved that Duncan is coming back on board.
"We've had an incredible workload since this storm, and L.M. has experience and knowledge that are invaluable," Perrin said.
Roy Ockert has filled in as chief operations officer since Duncan's departure.
"I think the flood came on Roy's first day of work, and he hasn't looked up from his desk since," Perrin said. "I can't thank Roy enough for his dedication and service to this city."
As COO, Duncan oversees all city departments with mobile operations, including the Streets, Sanitation, and Parks and Recreation, and shares an office with Perrin on the fourth floor of the City Municipal Building.
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