CLARKESVILLE – The Clarkesville City Council formally hired McDonough City Administrator Keith Dickerson as city manager on Tuesday.
Dickerson said he looks forward to learning the community as he begins his service to Clarkesville.
“The biggest thing is coming in and getting a feel for the community, getting a feel for the finances and where we’re at, and start looking for some additional funding options and grants that we can possibly bring in,” Dickerson said. “It’s just going to take a little bit of time to get up and running and get to know everybody.”
Dickerson said he realizes it will take him a little time to get acclimated to how the city operates, but he’s looking forward to the challenge.
“I know our public works is run through a contractor, so we’ve got some water projects that are going on,” Dickerson said. “We’re looking at some GEFA funding. A lot of those things are going to be hot and heavy when I get here. Those will be the most important things at first for me.”
But it won’t be all work for Dickerson and his wife when they relocate to the area.
“I’m just excited to get out and meet people in the community – the downtown area is beautiful – and just getting to know the folks in the community,” Dickerson said. “That’s really what I’m looking forward to.”
On Nov. 4, the council had named Dickerson as sole finalist for the position. The vote came during Tuesday’s council work session, following the required 14-day waiting period.
Dickerson has been employed by the City of McDonough for 15 years, formerly serving as a wastewater plant manager and public works director. He assumed the city administrator position there in 2015.
Aycock said Dickerson was chosen from about 100 applicants and was the first person she and council members interviewed for the position.
