Lenoir County commissioners continue search for new county manager
Lenoir County Commissioners recently gathered to discuss the search for a new county manager. Photo by Michelle Taylor / Neuse News
The Lenoir County Commissioners met Thursday afternoon to discuss information regarding the recruitment and search process for a new county manager.
“We’ve all stated that this is probably one of the most, if not the most important decisions we make as a group,” Chairman Craig Hill said. “It’s extremely important that we take our time and we don't feel rushed.”
At the July 16 county commissioner meeting, Hill passed out a survey to the commissioners regarding qualities needed for the new county manager. Commissioners discussed the surveys Thursday.
The survey listed many qualities in a new manager such as maintaining work relationships, administrative building, written skills, oral presentation skills, technical knowledge, team building, economic development and community presence.
Commissioners went around the table and discussed the skill sets they would like to see in a new manager.
“One of the things that I would personally like to see is a manager who would be more present in the community,” Hill said. “At this point and time, it is necessary with what’s happening in the community.”
Commissioner J. Mac Daughety said he agreed with Hill about wanting someone to have a presence in the community, as well as someone with a lot of energy.
“For them to be able to look at Lenoir County and have the vision to help show us what can be and lead us there,” Daughety said. ”If he can pull the team together and articulate what our vision is to the community, that would make a huge difference.”
The other commissioners shared their views during the meeting.
Preston Harris wants someone with a skill for oral presentation; he thinks that would help with community relations.
Roland Best said he thinks the invocation of major achievement tells you a lot about the person you bring in.
Reuben Davis said he is looking for someone who can help the image of the county with people skills who will be in the position for a while.
Linda Rouse Sutton wants someone who can think outside the box and also have a community presence.
After discussing the skills and qualities the commissioners are interested in, Sutton suggested giving a timeline of events at the next commissioners meeting. That was approved and will be addressed at the Aug. 6 commissioner's meeting.
The meeting ended with the commissioners discussing the wording of the job advertisement that will be posted to help recruit a new manager. Currently, there are no applicants for the position, but commissioners said they hope the advertisement will change that.
See previous story: County commissioners begin search for new county manager
