DEMOREST — Demorest has a new city manager on the job and she's already helping the city find ways to save money.
Kristi Shead began work Wednesday and was welcomed by the community following a brief city council meeting Thursday night.
During that called meeting the council voted unanimously to officially appoint Shead as city manager following the 14-day waiting period that followed her being named the sole finalist for the position.
"Kristi really has been plugging in for a week off and on, just coming in getting to know the staff and to figure out what our needs are currently," said Mayor Rick Austin.
Additionally, the council voted to follow Shead's recommendation to switch the city's liability insurance coverage to Travelers Insurance, at a savings of more than $16,500 per year.
"Her official start date was yesterday, and by the end of the day she had actually reviewed our liability insurance coverage," Austin said. "She made a recommendation to the council after looking through and having some discussions … our liability coverage is about the same we've had, and we've had a couple of line items that we were able to add back."
Austin said he and council members were impressed that Shead immediately delved into outstanding issues, such as the liability insurance coverage.
"On her first day, [Shead] was able to bring to us a recommendation that ultimately saves the city over $16,000 in the next coming year on our liability coverage," Austin said. "All in all a very good day for us yesterday as she got her feet really on the ground. I know she spent time today with the police riding the city and getting to know the city just a little more in-depth.
Austin said he looks forward to good things from Shead in the days, weeks and months to come.
"It has been a very nice transition, and it's going to be a very nice transition as we move forward," Austin said.
