Byrnes Mill city administrator Adam Thompson announced Nov. 15 that he is resigning, after less than one year on the job.
His last day will be Dec. 1.
Byrnes Mill has had three people in the job since May 2022, when former City Administrator Debbie LaVenture announced her impending retirement.
Thompson, who is paid a $92,000 annual salary, took over the city administrator job on Dec. 27, 2022, replacing Allison Sweeney, who served as interim city administrator from August 2022 to December 2022. Sweeney took over when Mary Holden resigned after only three months on the job, from May to mid-August 2022.
At the Nov. 15 Board of Alderperson meeting, Thompson said he was resigning for “unforeseen and personal issues.”
“I think the city is resilient,” Thompson said. “I think that, without me, it will still stand and be a good city. All the pieces are here to make it a great city. I hope that whoever comes in after me and the Board all work together and make a grand place. That’s my goal, my hope for the city.”
He said he will work during his final weeks with the city to make the transition as seamless as possible and wishes the city well.
“I chose this city because of its beauty and charm and the room for growth,” Thompson said. “Byrnes Mill is full of people who take pride in their city, and for good reason. I believe the city is in a decent place financially.”
Byrnes Mill Mayor Rob Kiczenski said he was sorry to hear the news about Thompson’s plans to leave.
“(Thompson) did a great job of getting things sort of straightened up here for us, budget-wise, and making sure everything’s in order.”
Thompson, 42, of Eureka said he would like to keep working for a governmental entity but has no immediate plans other than to spend time with his family.
“I need to handle my personal things with my children and family,” he said. “I plan to enjoy the holidays with them and kind of reset come January. My plan is always to stay in government, whether it be a city or a county, or even a state job.”
During his time with Byrnes Mill, Thompson said building relationships with other city employees was a highlight.
“The biggest thing I will miss is the employees,” Thompson said. “If I could wrap them up and take them somewhere else with me, I would.”