Staff Reports – July 23, 2024

Sources close to Currituck County administration confirm that the search for a new county manager is neither utilizing an executive search firm nor being advertised statewide or nationwide. Previously, the county engaged an executive search firm before hiring former county manager Donald “Ike” McRee but terminated the contract before receiving candidates and instead appointed McRee, county attorney at the time. Most commissioners later regretted this decision, voting five to two against renewing his contract at the end of his first year.

Currituck has a history of poor decisions in staff searches, often favoring familiar candidates over conducting comprehensive searches for the best fit. Commissioners are once again bypassing a nationwide search in favor of local options. Sources close to commissioners Selina Jarvis and Kitty Etheridge suggest both women support appointing acting county manager Rebecca Gay as the permanent manager.