Say goodbye to what was known as the City Council Chambers at Durango City Hall. Say hello to the Smith Chambers.

The city decided to rename the council chambers in honor of retiring City Attorney David Smith for his 37 years of service.

Smith, who retired Tuesday night, served as city attorney since March 1977.

The proclamation was read by Mayor Dick White, who presented Smith with a plaque at the council’s regular meeting.

White said Smith has served longer than any other city attorney in Durango’s 133-year history, providing “distinguished service.” The proclamation took effect Tuesday night.

Smith thanked those in attendance and joked it was sort of “like attending your own memorial service.”

“I feel truly fortunate to have been involved in the growth and development of a community that surely has been improved but, thankfully, has not really changed from what made it so attractive over 40 years ago,” he said.