Officials with Hall County Government announce several changes to the leadership team and feel confident that their succession planning has set them up for continued success in meeting goals and implementing the County’s Strategic Plan.
“We feel confident that our leadership team has done an excellent job in preparing people to move forward and continue a legacy of quality service to Hall County citizens,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Richard Higgins.
One of two Assistant County Administrator roles has been vacant since early July and Zach Propes, who filled the other Assistant County Administrator role, was recently announced as Jock Connell’s successor to the County Administrator position, leaving both positions open.
Casey Ramsey, who currently serves as Hall County’s Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (EMA), has been tapped to fill one of the vacancies. Katie Crumley, the County’s Communications and Strategic Engagement Manager, will fill the other. They will assume their new roles Jan. 1.
“Due to the roles they’ve served in, Casey and Katie have both been deeply involved in the implementation of Hall County’s Strategic Plan and the attainment of multiple long-range goals for the organization. With more than 30 years devoted to Hall County Government between them, they will be bringing forward a wealth of knowledge, a thorough understanding of the development that has happened in Hall County thus far, and a vested interest in ensuring Hall County continues to be a strong and vibrant community,” said future County Administrator Zach Propes.
Zach Brackett, the EMA Operations and Special Projects Manager, will fill the EMA Director’s role, while the county will conduct a search to fill the Communications and Strategic Engagement Manager position.
In addition to filling these vacancies, Hall County Attorney Van Stephens has announced his retirement, effective in January. His role will be filled by Bill Linkous, the current Deputy County Attorney.
“It’s been a privilege to serve local governments for nearly four decades-- Hall County for the last three years-- and I am grateful for the ability to retire knowing my role will be left in Bill’s very capable hands,” said Stephens.
“We have been intentional in hiring staff who embody the values of Hall County Government,” said Propes, “and intentional in ensuring we invest in the development of our team. These advancements have been well-earned, and I am excited to see quality service to Hall County citizens continue in the years to come.”