The City of Clarkesville has accepted the resignation of City Manager Barbara Kesler, effective Aug. 16.
Mayor Barrie Aycock announced Kesler’s resignation Tuesday, saying Kesler has served the city for more than 11 years.
Kesler plans to spend more time with her extended family and assist her husband with his business in Toccoa.
During Kesler’s administration in Clarkesville, some of the accomplishments include:
- Reconstruction of one-quarter of the downtown square after a devastating fire ravaged the east side in 2014;
- Successful application and receipt of grant funds in excess of $5.6 million;
- Introduction of a Main Street program and downtown development authority;
- Completion of a StreetScape design downtown;
- Demolition of the old garment factory and creation of additional parking;
- Major upgrades to the city’s water treatment plant;
- Significant stormwater management upgrades; and
- Construction of an up-to-date water treatment lab.
Another of Kesler’s notable accomplishments is successful management of city services and staff retention, during 10 years when the city tax digest decreased by 24% without any staff layoffs, furlough days or reduced benefit contributions, according to Aycock.
In a statement, Kesler expressed appreciation to her co-workers “whose commitment to excellence and betterment of the city is to be commended. They have overcome many circumstances where resources were slim, and challenges were great. They are the most outstanding people with whom I have ever had the privilege to work.”
Kesler’s resignation was not discussed at Monday night’s city council meeting.
