Official county press release:
After more than 11 years of distinguished service, John Middleton, administrative officer and chief financial officer for Newton County submitted his resignation to Chairman Morgan and the Newton County Board of Commissioners during executive session on Tuesday, to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests.
"During my tenure our population has grown from 62,000 to over 99,000 citizens, and we have worked with a county budget from $28 million to as high as $53.2 million. I want to express my sincere gratitude to all those that have worked with me at Newton County, from the three chairpersons, to every board member, constitutional officers, department managers, and to all the great Newton County employees. I know that their success as individuals and as a county government will continue
"In summing my tenure and resignation up I will say that during these past 11 years we have faced various challenges, gone through some trials and celebrated many victories for which I will be forever grateful to have a been a small part. I truly feel that I am a better person because of you and how you have touched my life. I wish you all the very best and as of Dec. 15, I've gone bird hunting!"
Newton County Chief Financial Officer John Middleton will retire Dec. 15, after more than 11 years with the county, to spend more time with family and pursue other opportunities.
Middleton was hired in 2000 as finance director and promoted to administrative officer in 2001. As for his plans, he said "I think that will figure itself out," though he does plan to do more bird hunting.
When asked what he was most proud of during his tenure, Middleton wrote, "Helping people develop as managers and leaders. Providing support, advice, helping get obstacles out of their way and then seeing how they use that knowledge in making good decisions with good outcomes and how they grow in their roles and what they are able to accomplish with the right resources."
Middleton was born and raised in Virginia and first moved to Georgia because of a job transfer.
Chairman Kathy Morgan said she will miss Middleton and will spend the remainder of the year trying to convince him to stay.
"John has performed his duties for Newton County with integrity, diligence and the utmost professionalism," Morgan wrote in a statement. "His departure will leave a void that cannot be filled."
Because Middleton's retirement comes during a budget reduction, his position cannot be rehired. The chief financial officer is the top non-elected county official.
"I think we have an excellent group of department managers and staff that have the skills and vision needed to serve our community well going forward," Middleton said.
