News Summary
The Benson Board of Commissioners has appointed Steven Harrell as the interim Town Manager after Kim Pickett’s departure. Harrell, who has extensive experience in local government, will begin his responsibilities on June 30. This appointment aims to ensure continuity during the search for a permanent Town Manager, as Harrell focuses on maintaining effective town operations during this transition.
Benson — The Benson Board of Commissioners has appointed Steven Harrell as the interim Town Manager following the departure of Kim Pickett. Harrell’s tenure in this role will commence on June 30, and he will take over responsibilities from Pickett, who has accepted a position as assistant town manager in Smithfield.
Kim Pickett announced her decision to leave her role in Benson in May after serving as Town Manager, paving the way for a transition in leadership. Harrell’s appointment aims to maintain continuity in the town’s administration during this period of change.
Steven Harrell brings with him a wealth of experience in local government, having begun his career in Goldsboro in 1980. He previously served as the town administrator in Benson from 1982 to 1984. Over the decades, he has held various influential positions across multiple towns, including stints in Clinton, Elizabeth City, Washington, and Wilmington. Harrell retired in October 2020 while overseeing operations as the Town Manager of Ayden.
Even after retirement, Harrell remained actively involved in municipal management, taking on interim roles in several communities. His recent positions have included serving as interim Town Manager for Robersonville in 2021, Brevard in 2022, Oxford in 2023, and Wadesboro in 2024. This experience has allowed him to stay current with local government matters in North Carolina, positioning him well for his new role in Benson.
Harrell has expressed that municipal management is a rewarding endeavor and is honored to return to Benson after 41 years. As he steps into this interim role, his focus will be on ensuring that the town’s operations continue smoothly until a permanent Town Manager is appointed.
The Benson Commissioners and Town Administration have indicated plans to begin the search for a permanent Town Manager. This process will involve conducting interviews for candidates later this year, with the goal of making a potential hire by December.
The transition in leadership comes at a time when leadership stability is crucial for the administration of Benson, ensuring that local government functions effectively during this period of change. Harrell’s extensive background in local governance enables him to provide the necessary guidance and support the town needs during this transitional phase.
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- My Daily Record: Benson Selects Interim Town Manager
- Google Search: Benson Town Manager
- JoCo Report: Benson Selects New Town Manager
- Wikipedia: Town Manager
- Vermont Journal: Bellows Falls Trustees Hear from Town Manager
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Local Government
- Newport News Times: Finalists Selected for Newport City Manager
- Google News: Town Manager News
- JoCo Report: Benson Town Manager Hired as Assistant Smithfield Town Manager
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