CARRBORO, N.C. – Town Manager Richard J. White III has announced he will be leaving the Town of Carrboro to assume a position as Deputy City Manager with the City of Salisbury, N.C. starting on Nov. 6, 2023.
The Town Council has expressed its gratitude for his leadership and contributions to the community.
“Richard has accomplished a great deal during his time in Carrboro,” Mayor Damon Seils said. “His work with the Town Council to develop strategic priorities, as well as his initiation of strategic planning processes with the Town’s staff, set the stage for achieving the vision of the Carrboro Connects comprehensive plan.”
White, who joined Carrboro in August 2021, came to the town with extensive experience, including leadership positions at the City of Asheville, the Town of Elon, and the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County. He has more than 25 years of municipal government experience. White held a position as assistant to the town manager in Carrboro (2000 to 2006) early in his career.
“The decision was a difficult one, as Carrboro is a very special community,” White said. “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to return to Carrboro to lead the organization and to help move Carrboro forward. It has been an honor to assist the Town Council and to work with a dedicated and outstanding staff.”
During his tenure as Town Manager for the Town of Carrboro, White’s noted accomplishments include completion of the $41 million financing of The 203 Project, which will house the recreation, parks and cultural resources offices and Orange County Southern Branch Library. In addition, he oversaw completion and early implementation of the Carrboro Connects 2022-2042 Comprehensive Plan; established the town’s framework for American Rescue Plan Act funds totaling $6.7 million; and initiated strategic planning processes for the Town Council and Management Team. Organizational development initiatives have included the town’s reopening following COVID-19; a focus on employee recruitment, retention and well-being; and organizational restructuring.
Following White’s departure, the Council will discuss next steps including appointment of an interim town manager and initiation of a search process for the town manager position.
- Manager’s Office -- Carrboro has a council-manager form of government. The seven council members, including the mayor, are elected. The Council appoints the town manager. Each has a different set of responsibilities. The Council sets policies: the Town Manager and his/her staff carry them out. As a professional administrator, the Town Manager coordinates all day-to-day operations and administration of about 200 employees and an annual budget of $81 million.
- For more information or for a high-resolution photograph, contact Communication & Engagement Director Catherine Lazorko at clazorko@carrboronc.gov
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