Tim Bennett has been at the administrative helm of Barnwell County for the past six years. As the county administrator, Bennett played an instrumental role in furthering the county on a number of fronts.
“I appreciate all that you’ve done for Barnwell County,” said Chairman Jerry Creech. “I have never had a guy that I had to ask him to quit working…I’m going to miss you.”
Chairman Creech is alluding to the countless hours and late nights Bennett would spend handling the needs of the county and fulfilling the desires of council.
“I appreciate the support that y’all have provided to me and to a great group of department heads,” said Bennett, who thanked every department head he worked with.
One person he thanked was “the outstanding Martha Thompson, who has kept me together in my office as clerk to council. Thank you, Martha,” he said.
He also thanked Marlena Ray, the director of the Barnwell County Animal Shelter, who he feels has one of “the most difficult jobs in the county.”
Bennett also thanked Barbara Christian and Toni Hutchins, “who have led the way along with Marlena to make that animal shelter the best we can make it. They have been wonderful.”
Bennett mentioned the work of these individuals has led to good things to come for the animal shelter, especially in the upcoming November Capital Project Sales Tax (CPST) referendum where $1.8 million will be voted on to the purchase of a new facility.
“I have been in this business for quite some time, and this is the best job I have ever had,” said Bennett. “The Marine Corps was good for 20 years; this has been outstanding.”
CPST presenter Clay Killian of Parker Poe Consulting congratulated Bennett on his retirement stating, “Tim has done a great job..I can tell you he is an outstanding administrator.”
Bennett worked alongside Barnwell County Council and department heads on numerous, large-scale projects like those listed in the upcoming CPST, day-to-day operations, in addition to an annual budget.
“Each of these gentlemen at this desk is a leader. When y’all come together as a group, y’all are a force for good in this community,” said Bennett of the council. “The personal dynamics between this county council and the administrator I am sure will continue under Meredith.”
Deputy administrator Meredith Wright will officially fill the administrator role on June 17. She was hired after the county underwent an interview process last month.
In a memorandum of appointment signed by chairman of the county’s personnel committee and county councilman Daniel Alexander, Wright is said to have brought “a wealth of experience and a proven record of leadership within our county, having served effectively as deputy administrator.”
Alexander shared a similar sentiment regarding Bennett stating, “Tim’s contributions have been invaluable, and his leadership has been a cornerstone of our community’s success.”
“It has been a privilege and an honor to work with every single one of you,” said Bennett.
Bennett plans to retire in Florida.
