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The Franklin City Council voted 6-0 on Monday, Jan. 13, to adopt a resolution honoring former Franklin Mayor Robert “Bobby” Cutchins for his long tenure of service and contributions to the community in a variety of capacities. 

Cutchins was presented with a printed copy of the resolution along with a plaque.

“It was an honor to serve Franklin on council and (as) the mayor and to serve with all of you,” Cutchins said to council members. “I appreciate what you do.”

Current Franklin Mayor Paul Kaplan read the resolution aloud prior to the council vote.

The resolution reads as follows:

“Whereas, Robert ‘Bobby’ Cutchins II, a dedicated and influential member of the Franklin/Southampton County community, has exemplified commitment and service in various capacities throughout his life; and

“Whereas, Bobby was born and raised in Franklin/Southampton County, where he contributed to the community as a business leader, public servant and active member of numerous organizations; and

“Whereas, Bobby graduated from Franklin High School in 1975 and went on to become the founder and chief visionary officer of Bobby’s Tire & Auto Care, significantly impacting the local economy; and

“Whereas, he served as the Ward 6 City of Franklin City Council Member from May 2017 to December 2022 and was appointed to the esteemed position of Franklin City Mayor from January 2023 through December 2024, leading with integrity and vision; and

“Whereas, Bobby held key roles on various boards, including serving as president of the Virginia Automotive Association and contributing to the Tire Pros National Board of Directors, where he promoted excellence in the automotive industry; and

“Whereas, his leadership extended to the Franklin-Southampton (Area) Chamber of Commerce, where he served both as a board member and as president, fostering economic development and community engagement; and

“Whereas, Bobby’s community service included membership on the Franklin Municipal Airport Advisory Board and the International Paper Community Advisory Board, where he provided valuable insights and leadership; and

“Whereas, he was recognized as the Franklin/Southampton County Business Person of the Year in 1993, honoring his dedication to local business and community welfare; and

“Whereas, Bobby Cutchins’ service on numerous panels and advisory boards has made a lasting impact on our community and continues to inspire those around him;

“Now, therefore, be it resolved that the City Council of Franklin expresses its heartfelt gratitude

and appreciation to Robert ‘Bobby’ Cutchins II for his outstanding contributions and dedication to the citizens of Franklin/Southampton County.

“Be it further resolved that this resolution be spread upon the official records of the City Council and that a copy be presented to Robert ‘Bobby’ Cutchins II as a token of our esteem and respect.”

The council vote followed shortly after the reading.

The tally of votes on the resolution adoption did not reach seven because Ward 3 Councilman Gregory McLemore was not present for the meeting.

After the vote, Kaplan called Cutchins forward and then presented him with the printed resolution and the plaque.

“I just want to say this is an honor to be able to give this to you,” Kaplan said.

Cutchins delivered a few remarks after the presentation.

“If I could leave one thought for everybody, being involved in public service is a commitment,” he said. “It’s for the betterment of all that’s involved. It’s not something you can buy, but it is something that you can make a difference (with) in people’s lives. So with that, Godspeed, thank you all for what you do. I appreciate all of you.”

Multiple expressions of “Thank you!” emanated from the dais followed by applause from around the Council Chambers.