Big moves are happening in local government, where Josh Edwards, once Athens-Clarke County Unified Government's Assistant Manager, is packing up his desk. He's about to take on a new challenge as the County Manager for York County, SC. According to an official announcement on Athens-Clarke County’s website, Edwards will be making the leap effective April 8, 2024, leaving behind a significant legacy in Athens.
Edwards' departure has been met with warm regards from his colleagues, "Josh has been a valued Assistant Manager for Athens-Clarke County since he joined our office and has impacted ACCGov tremendously in his time here," stated Manager Blaine Williams. He noted that while Edwards' career progression is exciting, his presence, and particularly his data-driven approach to governance, will be sorely missed in Athens. York County, nestled on the cusp of North Carolina and South Carolina, houses nine municipalities and is home to some 282,000 souls as per the 2020 Census, a fertile ground for Edwards to cultivate his expertise.
Prior to his tenure with Athens-Clarke County, which began back in 2019, Edwards was no stranger to public service. His resume boasts roles such as budget analyst and Senior Budget Analyst for Cary, NC, as well as Strategic Initiatives Manager and Assistant Budget Director in Durham, NC. In Athens, Edwards was instrumental in garnering a Silver Certification not once, but twice from the Bloomberg Philanthropies What Works Cities Certification due to his knack for data-centric innovation.
"It has been a privilege to serve Athens-Clarke County and ACCGov employees with Manager Williams and the dynamic team in the Manager’s Office," Edwards told Athens-Clarke County’s website. In the wake of his exit, Manager Williams, alongside Assistant Manager Niki Jones, will shoulder the responsibilities Edwards leaves behind. They will continue their stewardship until a worthy successor is found, a process that will span the nation in search.
