Panno honored for years of service

PONTIAC – A proclamation from the mayor of Pontiac declares Feb. 5 “Frank T. Panno Day.”

The longtime councilman, who retired from the post in December, served the city for more than 56 years. Panno was initially sworn into office May 1, 1961.

“The 56 and a half years of Frank’s continued service means that nearly 40 percent of the time Pontiac has been a city, it had Frank Panno as a councilman,” Mayor Bob Russell said during a public reception for Panno on Monday.

“Frank has provided representation and service to Pontiac citizens, leadership to the city council and government and ensured Pontiac was well governed and a vibrant community,” the mayor added.

Panno acknowledges he misses serving on the city council but felt it was a good time to step down due to some health issues. Panno remains a part of his business, Panno Realty where his daughter and grandson work closely with him.

“I have no plan to retire from that yet,” he said.

During his time on the council, Panno saw the city get a new sewer plant, recreation center, city hall and public safety facility. He is proud of these accomplishments.

“It was nice to see all of this stuff come to pass.”

Panno initially owned a clothing store in Pontiac before he got started in the real estate business in the 1960’s.