In a surprise move Monday night, Habersham County Manager Phil Sutton resigned. Sutton has served as the county’s top non-elected official for nearly eight years.
In a letter hand-delivered to commissioners during Monday’s county commission meeting, Sutton says he is leaving his job to care for his ailing mother.
“My mother’s health is in serious decline which is placing additional demands on my time and energy. I handle her healthcare decisions and financial matters,” Sutton states in his letter. “I am sorry for the additional burden this action places on all of you however, it is time for me to focus on my family responsibilities.”
Sutton was hired as Habersham County Manager on September 16, 2013. He says every day since has been “invigorating and challenging.”
In his resignation letter, Sutton thanked the commissioners, elected and appointed department directors, and county employees for their support through the years.
“I am honored to witness the hard work of our employees as they provide service to our county with skill and integrity,” writes Sutton. “I will deeply miss the people I have had the honor of working with here in Habersham County.” He and his wife, Beth, plan to remain as residents of the county.
Sutton’s employment agreement requires a 60-day termination notice. His resignation is effective July 16. He has offered to stay on the job through the July 19 county commission meeting.
This is the third recent high-profile resignation from within the county government. County Commissioner Tim Stamey resigned in April for health reasons. Habersham County Clerk Lindsay Underwood turned in her notice earlier this month.
