City of Norwich Senior Account Clerk Joan Smith with New York State Assemblyman Joe Angelino, who presented her with a citation for her years of service to the community. Smith is retiring after 27 years at City Hall. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — City of Norwich Senior Account Clerk Joan Smith has retired from her position after 27 years of serving the community.

City of Norwich Director of Finance, and Smith's supervisor, Dee DuFour said Smith began working as a clerk, and moved her way up to account clerk, and then senior account clerk.

"When she first came here she was the face of the finance office. She did the counter, answering the phones, that type of thing. A lot of people know her from answering the phone. She has kind of a very cheery voice when she answers the phone, so a lot of people know her from that," said DuFour.

As senior account clerk, she said Smith handled water billing, investing, and reconciling accounts.

Her departure is bittersweet, as Smith will be spending her retirement helping to care for her three grandchildren, which she is very excited for. However, DuFour said her bright personality and sense of humor will be greatly missed at City Hall.