The City Council of Salem, Virginia, has declared October 30, 2025, as ‘Alyson Chaisson Day.’ This date honors Alyson Chaisson’s 42 years of service to the city. The announcement was made at a recent council meeting. Mayor Renée Ferris Turk led the recognition. Chaisson will retire on October 31, 2025.
Alyson Chaisson started working for the City of Salem in August 1983. She had just graduated from Salem High School and attended New River Community College. Her first job was as a secretary for the Salem School Division. After one month, she moved to the Finance Department. Frank Turk, the Finance Director at the time, hired her.
During her career, Chaisson saw many changes in technology and office procedures. She began her work using an adding machine and an IBM memory typewriter. She worked at the front office of City Hall as an Accounting Technician. She was often the first contact for employees and citizens. Colleagues and the public noted her professionalism and friendly manner…