DA pays tribute to Murdock

By on Wednesday, December 28th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

UMATILLA COUNTY – Commissioner George Murdock officially retires at the end of this week, but his desk is empty. He cleaned out his office Tuesday and prepared to turn over his county car, writing in the final edition of his weekly newsletter that, basically, he had nothing left to be done.

Every commissioner has a list of county departments which they oversee. One of Murdock’s is the district attorney’s office. DA Dan Primus says having Murdock as a liaison has changed his life.

“The impact he’s had on me as a mentor, as a leader, will carry with me throughout my career,” he said. “I’m not where I am today if it wasn’t for George Murdock and his leadership.”

Primus said that simply observing Murdock has made him better.

“His ability to manage individuals is amazing,” he said. “I want to try to follow in his footsteps as a leader. He may not be an attorney, but it’s amazing what he has been able to teach me. I cherish the time I had with him.”

In his final newsletter, Murdock suggested that the public should show up to support newly-elected Commissioner Cindy Timmons when she is sworn in at 9 a.m. on Jan. 4, 2023.