Clarkesville to begin search for new city manager

By: Brian Wellmeier

Photo: Clarkesville City Council

Clarkesville is set to begin its quest for a new city manager in March, officials announced at a council meeting Monday, March 2. 

The top leadership position was left vacant by former city manager Keith Dickerson, who stepped down in February after more than six years in the role.

Following an executive session to discuss personnel Monday, Clarkesville’s City Council voted to publish the position and accept applications from March 16 to April 30. Mayor Franklin Brown said the specific credentials for the job will be available in the coming days.

City Clerk Julie Poole will serve as interim city manager amid the transitional period. Poole has worked with the city of Clarkesville since 2008 and has served in multiple roles in the city’s government for nearly two decades.

Photo: Interim City Manager Julie Poole

Dickerson's retirement and the absence of a permanent manager comes as the city is tasked with tackling a range of issues including growth, assessments of possible public safety needs and potential development of the old Habersham County courthouse property.

Officials have expressed confidence in Poole's ability to lead the city amid the search.

WCHM will update this story as the search progresses.