Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly took the stage inside of Athens State University’s Carter Gymnasium early Thursday morning, July 11, dedicating his 2024 State of the County Address to his late father, Gary Daly.

In his annual speech Collin Daly recognized his father, a former county commission chairman in his own right, who passed away in September 2023.

“You don’t really realize how much your father means to you until it’s too late,” Daly told The News Courier after his address. “I know what my dad’s mission was, so my goal now is to carry on his mission.”

Gary Daly lived a life of service to Limestone County, serving the public as both a commissioner and law enforcement officer for many years.

Collin noted the impact his father had on him growing up in his address, referencing his father’s old campaign motto when he was running for commission chair in 1986: “For a Brighter Future, Vote For Daly.”

Daly even dawned his father’s old cap and a pair of sunglasses near the end of his speech to comedically show just how bright Limestone County’s future is.

“We have a really bright future here in Limestone County. It’s always great to have growth because without growth you die,” Daly said. “We’ve got plenty of jobs coming in, so the quality of life of the people in our county is where we want to shift our focus to now.”

According to U.S. Census Data, Limestone County has been the fastest growing county in the State of Alabama since 2022.

Daly noted that the continued growth and success of Limestone County, both socially and economically, is a result of the prosperity of the region. He highlighted the efforts of multiple city and county officials who were present during the event.

One of the programs highlighted in the speech was the Athens-Limestone Chamber of Commerce, which hosted the event Thursday.

A catered breakfast kicked off the event for the large number of attendees that included various sponsors and businesses that have planted their roots in the rich soil of Limestone County.

“In this county, in this community, we truly are one big family,” Pammie Jimmar, president of the Athens-Limestone Chamber of Commerce, said. “It warms my heart to see everyone come together to listen to all the amazing things that are going on in our county.”

Various elected officials from both the county and the state were also well represented at the State of the County Address, as were multiple members of the city council and county commission.

State Rep. Andy Whitt also talked to The News Courier after the address, noting the flourishing community within Limestone County.

“It all comes down to the quality of life, the education system and the job creation that is drawing hundreds upon thousands of people each year into the county,” Whitt said. “I remember many years ago what a game changer it was to see even a handful of businesses come to this area, now it is commonplace because of the great leadership we have in this region, like Daly.”