After reviewing 70 applications from across the country in its search for a replacement for retiring town Manager Linda Story, the town council found a Caldwell County native to fill the position.
Jerry Church, 51, born in Lenoir and a resident of Granite Falls since 1981, will work with Story in a transitional phase until Story retires Nov. 30. Church admits that following Story, a 39-year employee of the town, 26 of which were as town manager, is intimidating.
"Linda Story has always kept the town first. I've got some big shoes to fill," Church said. "My goal at the end of my tenure, which won't be as long as Linda's, is to be able to be mentioned in the same sentence with Linda."
Church's salary as town manager was not immediately available Thursday.
Church comes from a business background, having a bachelor's degree in accounting and a master's degree in business administration, both from Appalachian State University. He worked his way up from staff accountant at Broyhill Furniture Industries, serving most recently as executive vice president of operations.
"His varied and long managerial experience, his personality and ability to work well with people will make him a perfect match with Granite Falls," said Mayor Barry Hayes.
In addition to his job, Church is active as a member of First Baptist Church in Granite Falls and on the board of trustees of Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute.
Church says he looks forward to his new position and thinks his business background will serve him well.
"The town itself is a business with the manager running finance and other departments, and I've handled many different departments in my career," Church said.
He said having a father who served two terms as a Caldwell County commissioner has given him insight into running a municipality.
"It's a good opportunity to do something different than I have before and continue to grow professionally. I like the idea of being at home and working at home," he said.
For her part, Story said she feels good about the transition, during which time she will be at Town Hall, helping Church get used to his new job. After she retires Nov. 30, she said she's looking forward to spending time with her grandchildren — Madison, Allen and Isabel — and becoming more involved in the community through different avenues. While she has no definite plans, she said she would like to volunteer with hospice.
She said Church is a good choice for her replacement.
"I'm excited for the town, for him and for myself," she said.
Story was named interim town manager in 1973 when then-manager Sammuel Noble Jr. resigned. She was hired for the position that following May and was one of only eight female town managers at that time.
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