Congressman Daniel Webster recently honored Groveland City Council Member John Griffin who will be retiring from public office after his term expires in November after serving 17 years as a city council member.
Webster presented Griffin with a flag that had flown over the Capitol in Washington, D.C., as a gesture of respect and appreciation for Griffin’s service in the military and as a council member in one of Central Florida’s fastest-growing communities.
“We are grateful for your service,” Webster said. “Your service to the community has been awesome, and you’re a loved person.”
“It’s been an honor today, and I thank you,” said Griffin, 73, who has been bed-ridden for several years. His health challenges were the reason he decided not to run, he said earlier this year.
Webster presented the flag during the visit to Griffin’s home. Attending the special visit were Griffin’s wife, Laverne Griffin, Groveland police Chief Shawn Ramsey, Executive Administrative Assistant Lisa Cortese and members of Webster’s staff.
Griffin ran a successful sign company, Tamjo Signs, and raised cattle while serving on the city council where he supported a number of initiatives, including new parks and a new senior center. He also supported the creation of the Groveland Historical Museum and new businesses, such as Publix supermarket and the Trilogy development. He was active in several churches’ praise bands, the Florida League of Cities, Dade Battlefield re-enactments and the Cattlemen’s Association. He has had a long friendship with leaders of the Seminole Tribe.
Griffin received his associate’s degree from Lake-Sumter Community College.
Griffin was appointed vice mayor in 2008 and reappointed the following year. As his term winds down, he said his focus has been on what is best for the community, especially in the areas of affordable housing and reducing crime.
