Jay Owens was sworn in as the Pontotoc County Assessor this past Monday morning, January 3 ^rd , in an 11:00 am ceremony at the Pontotoc County Courthouse. Mr. Owens assumes the position with 22 years of experience in the Assessor’s Office. He took over the position on the retirement of Debbie Byrd.

Mrs. Byrd retired on December 30, 2021 after working 39 years in that office. Debbie was hired by the wellremembered assessor Frank Jared and has held the position of County Assessor the past eight years.

Debbie is a graduate of Byng High School, who then attended East Central University. She and her husband, Roger Byrd, make their home in Allen.

Mrs. Byrd said, “It was a privilege to serve the people of Pontotoc County. There have been a lot of changes since I first started here but I have able to meet a lot of people and make a lot of new friends.” She continued by saying, “I was fortunate to have good people working with me in the office. The staff made my job much easier.”

When asked about her retirement plans she replied, “I have no definite plans, just to take it as it comes and enjoy life. I am looking forward to spending more time with my grandkids, and Roger and I enjoy traveling so perhaps that will happen more.”

Also retiring from the Assessor’s Office in December was former Allen resident Betty Carter. Ms. Carter, an Allen High School grad, served 15 years with Mrs. Byrd.

We wish both Debbie and Betty all the best and hope they will enjoy their retirement for many years to come.