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Armstrong, 85, currently the longest-serving public official in California, has been battling health issues and was recently hospitalized with complications from pneumonia.

An open reception will be held Oct. 17 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Clovis City Hall before Armstrong attends his last council meeting at which dignitaries will present him with a number of honors and proclamations.

Harry, who was instrumental in getting Highway 180 East and Highway 168 built, has served on the board of the California League of Cities for more than 27 years, most notably as League president from 1982-1983. He also served on the League’s Transportation, Communication and Public Works Policy committees.

Transportation and water have been his passion and Armstrong has served as chairman of the Fresno County Transportation Authority for 22 years. He has also served as chairman of the Fresno County Water Advisory Board for 13 years and the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies for 21 years.

During his public service career, Harry has received numerous awards including the Rose Ann Vuich Ethical Leadership Award, League of California Cities’ Award for Service and Contributions to the Board of Directors, 2015 Fresno Council of Governments Regional Forum – Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence, Leadership & Commitment.

Armstrong was inducted into the Clovis Hall of Fame in 2010 and was named the Grand Marshal of the Clovis Rodeo Association in 2015.

City officials have also honored the longtime councilmember by recently opting to name the new City of Clovis transit system hub the William “Harry” Armstrong Transit Center.

“Harry Armstrong has been a guiding force in Clovis for 50 years,” said Clovis Mayor Nathan Magsig.

“No one person has had more of a positive impact on Clovis than Harry Armstrong,” Magsig added. “Clovis is today, and has been, the safest city in the Central Valley. It is a city of choice for young families. It is a community that is recognized nationally for excellence. Harry Armstrong has dedicated most of his life to bringing excellence to Clovis. This is a debt that can never be repaid.”