BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. (WLOS) — The Town of Black Mountain’s town manager has announced his resignation.
According to a Dec. 10 news release, Josh Harrold’s last day in office will be Jan. 26. This announcement comes after recent inspection and permit controversies with a local brewery.
Harrold said in the news release that he felt like his values were different from the Town Council’s.
QUESTIONS REMAIN AFTER BLACK MOUNTAIN ADMITS PAST ERRORS IN PERMITS, INSPECTIONS
“My values no longer align with the Council’s’ values,” Harrold said in the release. “Although stepping away is not an easy decision, I believe it is the right time for new leadership to guide the next phase of growth and progress.
Harrold has been the Black Mountain town manager for the past seven years. During that time, Harrold led the Town through a period of substantial growth and challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and Tropical Storm Helene, the release said.
During Harrold’s tenure, Black Mountain achieved accreditation for the Black Mountain Police Department, made significant improvements and updates to parks, and secured agreements with the State of North Carolina for the donation of land to support future public safety facilities, the release said. The Town also successfully pursued and obtained over $35 million in grant funding for stormwater, waterline and parks and recreation projects.
The Town Council said it will begin the process of identifying an interim town manager and initiating a formal search for Harrold’s successor.
“I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will do all I can to support the Council and staff during this process,” Harrold said in the release.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION (4)
Assistant Town Manager Jessica Trotman will support day-to-day leadership and ensure continuity during the transition, the release said, but Trotman will not serve as interim manager.
