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Jason Cobb
White County Board of Commissioners announced earlier this week that County Manager Jason Cobb will be leaving by the end of June.
Commissioners voted to accept Cobb’s resignation notice following a closed session meeting to discuss personnel on Monday evening, May 3. Cobb is departing to “pursue a private business opportunity.”
“To say that we were surprised is an understatement, however, we appreciate Jason’s work for the citizens of White County over the last year and pray for the best for him and his family on this new undertaking,” read a statement released Tuesday morning on behalf of commissioners.
Cobb declined to discuss specifics of his next role, but said the difficult choice was made in the best interest of his career and family. He said his successor will be fortunate to take on the role in a thriving community.
“I’ve loved every minute of being here, especially the people,” Cobb told the White County News. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but I’m very grateful for the opportunity White County gave me.”
Commissioners and Cobb agreed on June 25 as his last day with the county. The arrangement will carry through the county’s current budget process and prepare for a transition into the new fiscal year, which begins July 1.
Cobb began work as county manager roughly a year ago, following the retirement of Mike Melton in late April 2020. He was serving as city manager in Eastman when commissioners named him the sole county manager finalist out of a pool of more than 100 applicants.
County Chairman Travis Turner praised Cobb’s job performance, though he lamented the development.
“On a personal note I had high expectations that Jason and his family would have been with us for many years to provide daily leadership for the great citizens of White County, however, that wasn’t meant to happen. We wish Jason, Callie and his girls the best on their future endeavors,” Turner said. “Given that this is so fresh for us all, the Board will be meeting in the coming days to discuss what our next steps will be because we truly need guidance through prayer on where to take this very important position for the county.”
The county manager oversees daily administration of government, including departments and employees, though the position still answers to the county’s elected body, the Board of Commissioners. This executive role often provides advice and insight to commissioners, but it ultimately carries out the policy and direction of the Board.