Story By Cale Colby
Worth County Administrator Carl Rowland confirmed on Monday that the County’s Finance Director Barbara Francis resigned on Wednesday, June 6. This resignation comes just a few weeks before the county will vote on the 2018-19 budget.
While the administrator would not comment on the specific reasons for the finance director’s sudden resignation, he did mention that it was a mutual decision between the county and Mrs. Francis. Additionally, Mr. Rowland commented that Chairman Fred Dent suggested that the county contact former Worth County Finance Director Laverne Watkins. Watkins graciously agreed to serve as interim finance director until a replacement is hired.
According to the county administrator, most of the budget concerns have already been addressed and agreed upon. He also stated that the county is fortunate to have Mrs. Watkins, who is familiar with the workings of the county and its budget return, though he could not say how long she might have to fill in. And, Mr. Rowland noted that he has also served as a finance director for many years. Therefore, he says the county is in good shape as they work to adopt the new budget.
Mrs. Francis was hired after Watkins retired in November of 2015. The new fiscal year begins on July 1.