County hires new assistant manager
By Rochelle Moore
Published in News on September 22, 2016 9:57 AM
"I had discussed with you all about the possibility of hiring an interim county manager while we advertise for that position," Wood told the board.
Ponder will work with the county between 90 and 120 days and will be paid $10,000 a month, Wood said.
That is similar to what Burns earned annually of about $121,000, he said.
Ponder has twice served as interim county manager for Gaston County. Prior to being named Gaston County assistant manager, he was the county's budget director.
He also is the former city manager for Kings Mountain and Mount Holly.
"For some time he was also equipment services and transit administrator for the city of Gastonia," Wood said. "So he has experience in running something similar to GATEWAY. He is highly experienced.
"I have known him personally and professionally for about 28 years. I think he will get a great addition to our staff on a temporary basis.
Burns, the former county manager for Harnett County, had worked for Wayne County since Dec. 2, 2014
Commissioners created the assistant manager position in August 2014 by expanding the duties of the Office of Emergency Services director. That job was left vacant in May 2014 after longtime county employee Joe Gurley retired and was appointed to a vacant seat on the commission.
Burns' duties including supervising the Office of Emergency Services and human resources as well as several other departments.
Ponder will be responsible for the same departments, Wood said.