The Parlier City Council meeting on November 16, 2023, focused on honoring Executive Director Tony Boren for his significant contributions to the Fresno Council of Governments (FCOG) and the communities he served. Boren, who has been with FCOG for 30 years and served as executive director since 2008, is set to retire, prompting a resolution from the council to recognize his impact.

During the meeting, council members expressed their admiration for Boren's leadership and dedication, particularly in supporting rural communities like Parlier. The mayor noted that Boren's experience and understanding of community needs would be hard to replace, especially as many long-serving officials are retiring this year. The discussion highlighted concerns about the future of funding for rural areas, which often struggle to secure resources compared to larger cities like Fresno and Clovis.

Boren's departure raises questions about the continuity of support for critical infrastructure projects, including the upcoming Measure C, which is essential for funding road repairs and improvements in Parlier. The council emphasized that without the passage of this measure, the city would face significant challenges in maintaining its roads and infrastructure.

The resolution honoring Boren reflects the collective appreciation of local leaders for his role in fostering collaboration and effective planning in the region. As the council prepares for a transition in leadership at FCOG, members expressed hope for a successor who can continue to advocate for the needs of rural communities.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of Boren's contributions to the region and the challenges that lie ahead for Parlier and similar communities as they navigate changes in leadership and funding opportunities.