Mayor Gary Caldwell announced the appointment of Interim Manager Page McCurry and Interim Manager Rick Howell. McCurry will take office on June 11 and serve until July 5. Howell will take office on July 6 and serve until Town Council appoints a town manager.
McCurry currently serves as the town’s human resources director and has an extensive background in public administration.
With a bachelor’s degree in public and non-profit administration and a master’s degree in public administration, both from UNC Pembroke, and a certification in municipal and county administration from the UNC School of Government, McCurry offers extensive knowledge in her field. Her skillsets include strategic leadership, financial stewardship, and organizational development. McCurry is also professionally involved in multiple organizations, including the North Carolina City & County Management Association.
Howell has served as the manager of Shelby and Brevard. Since 1987, Howell’s career included managerial roles in North Carolina local government. Besides public service, Howell is also heavily involved in community service including sitting on the boards of United Way, Salvation Army, and Rotary Club. Howell has a Bachelor of Science degree in political science and city/county management, as well as a master’s degree in public administration in city/county management, both from Appalachian State University.
“Waynesville could not be prouder to appoint Page McCurry and Rick Howell as our interim managers. They bring years of trusted experience, and their primary focus will be supporting our incredible staff and maintaining the momentum of our ongoing community projects,” Caldwell said.
Town Manager Rob Hites will be retiring on June 10 after 38 years of public service.