Even in small towns, getting to know your neighbors can be difficult. This is why we have created a new series, Meet your Neighbor, to help you get to know some of the faces around the Cassopolis community.
For the past 32 years, Cheri Martine has been the person people turn when they needed something done with their gas or electric payments. But as of June 30, that will no longer be the case.
Martin, utilities billing clerk for the Village of Cassopolis, is retiring. She has worked with at least 10 village presidents and numerous managers. Though she says there are too many memories of her time with the village to recall any specific one, she is taking time to remember the last three decades that she has spent in Cassopolis.
What was it like working so many years with the village?
It’s really gone by so fast. I was hired in by Police Chief Frank Williams in 1985 as his secretary. Then I got the opportunity to work half with the police department and half with public works. Then I became the utilities billings clerk, which I’ve been doing ever since.
What was your favorite part of the job?
Working with all the different the presidents and working with the people. There are some people who will come up to you and joke around, and they will always ask how you’re doing. That was always my favorite thing.
Why is now the right time to retire?
I’m 69, that has something to do with it. Another thing is all the newer, modern technology you’ve got to learn.
How do you plan to spend your retirement?
I want to spend more time with my grandchildren. I’m just going to do whatever I feel like doing.
Why do you like living and working in Cassopolis?
All in all, the community is great. I’ve always tried to shop locally, so you get to know the merchants, who are all helpful. It’s just a neat little town. I don’t like a lot of fast-moving traffic stuff, so this worked out pretty good for me.
What is one thing you would like people to know about you?
That I’m dedicated.