County Manager Resigns

Jasper County Manager Lorri Smith resigned this week, just over two months after she officially became county manager.

Mrs. Smith tearfully discussed her plans to leave with the commissioners during an emergency called meeting Tuesday evening. The commissioners “reluctantly” accepted Mrs. Smith’s resignation.

Mrs. Smith is leaving as she has accepted the position of Director of Administration for Secretary of State Brian Kemp. Mrs. Smith explained she would have liked to have given more notice, but the state wants her there to train with the person whose position she is taking. She will work through the end of this week, then has made arrangements to work each Monday in May and June in Jasper County. She also said she would be willing to help on the weekends when needed until a new manager is in place.

Sharon Robinson will serve as interim county manager so department heads and constitutional officers have a contact person. Commissioners don’t plan to change their role of making policy, but will be available if needed.

In addition to making those personnel changes Tuesday, commissioners discussed the budget in a work session.