Rockmart Council approves promotions, Stacey Smith is the first woman to take the helm of municipal government

With unanimous votes on Tuesday evening, the Rockmart City Council turned over the reins of administration to the first woman in that role in that role across municipal governments* in Polk County

Stacey Smith, previously the city clerk, was promoted Tuesday to take over a City Manager, a job on the interim that was held by Rockmart Fire Chief Todd Queen.

Smith was unanimously approved by the council to take on the role.

With the vote, she becomes the first female executive over a municipal government in Polk County appointed to the role.

“I want to thank the Mayor and the Council for this opportunity,” Smith said following the vote during her first manager’s report. “I want to thank the city as well because throughout the years you’ve done a great job of allowing me to grow professionally along with the city growing. I’m so grateful to all the city employees for all their support.”

Rockmart Council members also unanimously approved the appointment of Jada Edwards to take over as the City Clerk. In a probationary role, Lori Davidson will take over as the Chief Financial Officer. She’s currently serving as the Finance Director for the city until her hire is made official.

Mayor Sherman Ross and the council expressed their great admiration for Smith and Edwards during Mayor and Council comments, with hopes for Smith to have a long future. They received a round of applause following the appointments.

“It’s good to have everybody in place,” Councilmember Marty Robinson said. “As far as Stacey goes, I have no doubt that she’ll do a good job. The things that she’s had a big part in already, so I have no doubt she’ll do fantastic in this job.”

Councilmember Lucille Harris echoed that support and added that the city doesn’t like turnover and hopes Smith, Edwards, and Davidson will remain in their roles for years to come.

Smith takes on the role full-time after sharing managerial duties as City Clerk with Queen following the passing of Rockmart City Manager Jeff Ellis from complications due to COVID-19 earlier in the year.

Her position becomes official as soon as the contract between the city and Smith is signed by all parties.

*At least at such a late hour at the time of writing to this reporter’s knowledge. Have info I don’t? Email me at kevin@polk.today to correct the record. – KtE