Packed courtroom honors Peterson’s 35 years

HAYS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SHANNON WEST STAFF REPORTER

Thirty-five years is a long time to work for an employer; over three decades of service takes real dedication. Hays County Constable Pct. 1 David Peterson was celebrated for that very accomplishment at the Hays County Commissioners Court last week. The courtroom was packed with his family and friends who were there to honor him for his long service to the county.

Peterson said his first job with Hays County was as a Reserve Officer when he was in his 30s. He has held many positions since — moving from that position to a Correctional Officer, then a Sheriff’s Deputy, serving under four different Sheriffs, and later he was elected Hays County Constable of Pct. 1.

“My drive is the people of Hays County, and it’s the only county that I’ve ever worked for,” Peterson said. “I started out as a security guard, and that influenced me that I could talk to people and help people — serve and protect.”

Peterson said the people of Hays County are what has kept him at it all these years.

“The people — they’re the ones that made me,” Peterson said. “They’re the ones that helped me. They’re the ones that kept my drive going.”

Eva Peterson Lucky went to the podium at commissioners court to give a speech about her brother.

“When we speak of brave, courageous, humble, a man of integrity, one who is hardworking and will give you his all, I speak of my brother David Lois Peterson,” Lucky said. “This is not a glamorous job, David — law enforcement. You may have to respond to your neighbors domestic violence situations that you just had a barbecue party with. Not fun. You may have to serve eviction papers to people you know personally. You may have to cope with the lack of quality family time, vacations, birthdays [and] anniversaries because of on-call duties. … Rolling up on an accident only to learn that the victim is a coworker’s child.”

Lucky congratulated her brother for 35 years of service in law enforcement.

“It is a remarkable achievement and a testament to your dedication and commitment to keeping the community safe,” Lucky said. “You have made a positive impact on many people throughout your career.”

Peterson said without his family and friends he would not be the man he is today.

“I want to thank each and every one of you that are here,” Peterson said. “I have a team. There’s a lot of power in this room. This power is not just for me; it’s for each and every one of you here. We all work together as a team.”

Peterson said he tries not to be a stranger to anybody, which was evident by the large number of people in attendance to show support for his incredible achievement. So many people were a part of his photo with the court that it was difficult to fit them all in front of the dais.