COVINGTON, Ga. - City of Covington City Manager Leigh Anne Knight plans to retire in December of this year, citing her impending role as a grandmother as her reason for leaving.

“Success in life is defined by people in many different ways,” Knight said. “Being a firefighter, police officer of CEO of a Fortune 500 company can all be considered success. I think being a productive employee, regardless of the company you work for is a success. But I have always dreamed of being a grandmother and being a caregiver for a grandchild like my grandmother did for me. 

“My husband has supported this goal and we have worked extremely hard over the last few years to make sure we were in a position to be able to do this. I have enjoyed my time with the City and hope that in some small way I have made a difference in our community and for the city employees.”

Hired as the Finance Director for the city in 2009, Knight became Covington’s first female city manager in 2013. She is responsible for all operational aspects of the city including governmental services, utility services and public works services.

“This was a tough decision. My relationships with my coworkers is what made it so difficult. I wish the best for the city, its employees and whoever comes to the city for this position,” Knight said. “I hope they can see the value of this community and the employees that pour so much into their jobs each day.”

Covington Mayor Ronnie Johnston said Knight and her contributions will certainly be missed by the city’s employees and the community.

“Anyone that knows Leigh Anne well has always known her desire to be a grandmother and I am glad she will finally have that opportunity,” Johnston said. “You could always count on Leigh Anne taking the high road, being fair and honest and delivering her messages in a tactful yet direct way. 

“Her contributions are countless but there are several more big items we are going to accomplish before she leaves to fulfill her duties as a grandmother.”