Demorest has a new city manager for the first time in forty years. Steve Lindsey was hired by the Demorest City Council Wednesday night on a 3-1 vote. The night began with John Popham making a motion to hire Kristi Shead, one of two named finalists. The motion died for lack of a second. Jerry Harkness then made a motion to hire Lindsey. Sean Moore seconded the motion. Moore, Bennett and Harkness voted in favor of the motion. Popham voted against it.
Lindsey has extensive experience in administration and management of governmental operations. He was formerly a Revenue Section Supervisor with the Georgia Department of Revenue and is currently the Executive Director of the Georgia Secretary of State’s Licensing Boards. In both of those positions, he brought leadership in utilizing new technology to increase customer service and efficency. Lindsey’s innovative program at the Georgia Department of Revenue was recognized by KPMG Peat Marwick’s auditors and was utilized as a ‘Blueprint for Modernization’ by the Governor’s office.
Lindsey and his wife Kathy are currently in Macon, Georgia. Lindsey says, “I was looking for a career change” and he felt his skills fit the requirements for the position. “I have always loved this area and everything just felt right,” says Lindsey of his decision to apply in Demorest. “I take very seriously the fiduciary trust of this position and look forward to working with the Mayor and Council to manage and move the operations of the City forward with a high level of customer service.”
Lindsey is expected to be on the job by May the 8th with a salary of $70,000 plus benefits. He succeeds former Demorest City Manager Juanita Crumley who held the position for over 39 years before retiring/resigning the post in December of last year.
