Richland County Council honors late Chief Deputy County Attorney Elizabeth McLean, names conference room

Richland County Council adopted a resolution Tuesday evening recognizing the life and 25 years of service of Chief Deputy County Attorney Elizabeth McLean and approved naming the county legal department conference room in her honor.

The resolution, presented during the meeting, described McLean’s legal career in the county, her role during the COVID‑19 pandemic and her community service. County Attorney Wright said the legal office had operated “as a family” and described McLean as someone who “unceasingly and unselfishly shared her time, breadth of knowledge, and wisdom with her colleagues.”

The resolution notes that McLean joined the county legal department in February 2001 and served in roles including staff attorney, deputy county attorney, acting county attorney and chief deputy county attorney. It says she provided legal guidance to county staff, liaised with elected and appointed officials, and helped guide the county through legal issues tied to the pandemic.

During the presentation County Attorney Wright announced the county would name the Legal Conference Room the “Elizabeth McLean Hellfighter Conference Room,” citing McLean’s spirit and a reference to the historic 369th Infantry Regiment (the “Harlem Hellfighters”) as part of the dedication.

Council members and colleagues offered personal remembrances. Councilwoman Baird said McLean “was always there to answer all my questions” and recalled McLean’s readiness to help the county quickly during the pandemic. Councilmember Newton, participating online, called McLean “so knowledgeable and so passionate about making a difference.” A family representative thanked the council for the recognition and called McLean’s service more than “work” to the family.

The council motion to adopt the resolution was called and approved at the meeting. Council members then invited McLean’s family to the dais to receive the framed resolution.