Pell City Council president James McGowan and city clerk Penny Isbell’s last meeting on Oct. 26 was filled with honors, praise and well-wishes.

McGowan, who has long represented the 2nd District, will have a permanent honor.

Newly-elected council president Jud Alverson announced that the chambers of City Hall would be renamed James O. McGowan Council Chambers.

Additionally, the council unanimously passed a resolution to officially name Oct. 26 as “James McGowan Day” to honor his 32 years of public service.

“This role is all about service to the community and he exemplifies that more than anyone,” Alverson said. “Everybody was in collective agreement to do something for him. This was a great way to honor him.”

Officials from the city and county, including former mayors, attended the meeting to express gratitude towards McGowan.

He was also given a key to the city and received special honors from the fire and police departments.

McGowan and his family noted they have been overwhelmed with all of the love and support.

After serving as council president for 8 years, McGowan lost his bid for another term in August. Ivi McDaniel will now represent his district.

Also honored, Isbell is set to retire from public service after 25 years.

Council members and officials took a moment to express the value Isbell brought to the city.

“You’re my family, and I am dearly going to miss everyone,” Isbell said.

Newly elected and incumbent city council members are set to begin their new administration at the beginning of November.