COVINGTON, Ga. – Covington-Newton County 911 Director Mike Smith is retiring from the City of Covington at the end of the month to take a job with the State of Georgia.

Smith told The Covington News he is retiring after 37 years of service to the citizens of Covington and Newton County.

“After 37 years collectively with City of Covington and Newton County I will be retiring from the City of Covington as 911 Director to accept a position as Deputy Director at the Georgia Emergency Communications Authority,” he said in an email.

GECA is a new division attached to the Georgia Emergency Management Agency/Department of Homeland Security.

Smith told The News his last day on his current job will be March 29. He will start his new post April 15.

Covington Public Relations Manager Trey Sanders said the 911 Center director’s position will be open to current city employees as well as external candidates. 

“As soon as we find the most qualified candidate we will make the hire. The sooner the better,” he said.