Mayor reflects on tenure
June 30 will mark the last day for Billy Nowell as Mayor of Cleveland after 16 years and he’s calling the upcoming occasion a “bittersweet” one.
“I’ve always been told, by some very wise people, that you’ll know when it’s time to step down from a certain position, or back away from something,” said Nowell. “I found that to be true. But this experience, this job, has been the honor of my life.”
Nowell, who also served as a Cleveland City Alderman for eight years prior to first being elected Mayor in 2009, said he believes that the town he loves has grown and progressed for the better during his tenure, but deflects taking the credit.
“You do the best you can, of course,” he said. “But, so many wonderful people in our community have helped me and stepped up to the plate to make Cleveland what I truly believe we are — the ‘crown’ of the Delta. One person can only do so much and I’ve been extremely blessed to have support from all corners of this outstanding community.
“Honestly, I’m most proud of all of our department heads and city employees that I’ve had the privilege of working with,” said Nowell. “To me, this city runs like a well-oiled machine and it’s because of the caliber and the quality of the people who do their jobs day in and day out. On top of that, we all feel like family. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better situation to work in.”
When asked about high points during his time as Mayor, the Cleveland native was quick to say there were many but, when pressed, came up with two.
“Getting the GRAMMY Museum® here was a monumental accomplishment for this city and this state,” said Nowell. “I also think that ‘50 Nights of Lights,’ during the holiday season, has put us even more on the map. There are so many wonderful things that have happened in Cleveland since I’ve been mayor; I’m hesitant to name just two, but those that I mentioned really stand out. But it wasn’t due to me — I helped and facilitated, of course, but so many others here were instrumental in this town’s numerous achievements and accomplishments.”
Nowell also credited Delta State University’s presence in Cleveland as one of the keys to his successful tenure and said the city and DSU have long had a positive and mutually-beneficial relationship.
“There’s no doubt that Delta State has been a huge catalyst for so much of our town’s success,” said Nowell. “And, I want to add that the man on the job now, President Dan Ennis, is a perfect fit for the school moving forward. There’s little doubt in my mind about that.”
As far as winding down in his tenure, the outgoing President of the Mississippi Municipal League said he’s been keenly aware of ensuring the hand off of the proverbial baton to the new mayor will be done in the most efficient and seamless manner possible.
“I’ve been tying up as many loose ends as I can and putting in the work to make the transition smooth for (Mayor-elect) Paul Janoush,” said Nowell. “I want him to have a stress-free, fresh start and I know he’s going to do an excellent job based on his business acumen and his 35 years spent as a City Alderman. We talk on a regular basis and I’ve let him know I’ll always be on call if needed. But I don’t think I will be,” he said.
A Cleveland High School Class of 1968 graduate, Nowell said he will remain in the town he loves, staying active in his real estate business, Partnership Properties, but also taking the time to relax, play more golf, and spend time with his wife of nearly 28 years, Becky, and their entire family.
“I still walk for exercise, but plan to hit a few golf balls more often,” he said. “But when I’m not doing that, Becky and I will be spending time with our 4 grandchildren and traveling as often as we can because we both love doing that. I think I’ll have a pretty full schedule!”
Nowell said he didn’t walk away from his position lightly.
“I put a lot of prayer into my decision and had many discussions with Becky and my children,” said Nowell. “But, it was time. I’m comfortable with my decision and very excited and confident about what Paul will do for the city.”
