Jack Lesher steps down from Lewes BPW

Longtime Lewes Board of Public Works director Jack Lesher resigned his post effective July 22.

Lesher, 87, was appointed to the board in June 2011 by then-Mayor Jim Ford. 

“There’s a right time in life to make every decision,” Lesher wrote in a letter to the BPW. “The key is to recognize when the time is right. I’ve had the pleasure of serving 10 years as treasurer of this unique and wonderful enterprise that operates utilities of the beautiful city of Lewes. However, I now recognize the right time has arrived for me to step aside to make room for new and young ideas.”

Lesher is a certified public accountant with more than 30 years of experience. He has been an accountant for small- and medium-sized businesses, and served as managing partner for a regional accounting firm in Lancaster, Pa., before moving to Lewes. He’s lived in Lewes for more than 20 years.

BPW President D. Preston Lee said Lesher’s background brought a unique perspective to the board, and his larger-than-life personality provided much-needed levity. 

“He’s done a yeoman’s job here,” Lee said. “The talent that he’s brought to this has been much needed and well used.”

Lee continued, “He’s a very enjoyable guy who loves life. He’s very genuine and a joy to be around. He’s just so outgoing, bubbly and funny. He breaks the tension in the room. He’s going to be sorely missed.”

BPW General Manager Darrin Gordon also complimented Lesher’s talent with numbers. 

“Jack Lesher has served the BPW in an extraordinarily selfless way. His oversight and teaching has strengthened the BPW operations and financial management,” Gordon said. “Jack always has a smile, a quick wit and encouragement for everyone around him. He is the life of any meeting or gathering. Jack has been an invaluable asset to the BPW staff, and his friendship will always be cherished. We wish ‘Tumbleweed’ all the best on his future travels and adventures.”

Outside the BPW, Lesher has also been involved with the Lewes Presbyterian Church, the Overfalls Foundation, Lewes Historical Society and other community organizations.

“He’s more than paid his dues to the society here,” Lee said.

Lee expects an official recognition of Lesher’s service at an upcoming meeting.

Lee has nominated Earl Webb to fill his remaining term, which expires in May. Webb retired to Lewes following a career with AT&T and General Electric. 

Lewes Mayor and City Council must review the nomination at its Monday, Aug. 10 meeting before Webb can be officially appointed at the BPW’s meeting later in the month.