Thaxton 'hits ground running' in new role (Georgia)

By Agnes Hagin

Chuck Thaxton, Polk's new assistant manager, leaned back in his chair and talked about the past, present and future of the place he calls home.

Thaxton, who assumed his position on March 23, said the transition was made so that he could "hit the ground running" as he works with Manager Wayne Johnson. "I am here to help meet the daily demands of this job and help implement the policies and procedures of the board (Commissioners)," he explained. Thaxton began his tenure as a part time employee with the county in 1991 and became full time in the Emergency Medical Services Department during 1996. He also worked with the Rockmart Fire Department.

He said his background gave him an insight into many areas of county government, including public safety and the road system. For a county the size of Polk, he considers citizens fortunate to have its current road network. This includes the fact that there are few dirt roads emergency vehicles have to travel to reach people in crisis. His opinion is that major transportation arteries – highways 27, 278, 101 and 113 – will continue to bring people into the area.

Thaxton said he had heard citizen comments during recent planning meetings. "Everyone sees the county from a different perspective and feel that problems or issues should be tackled according to their vision," he said. "This is good. We need to consider all suggestions and provide a mixture of housing, industry and business for all the people." He noted the concern expressed by community leaders who want to preserve scenic beauty and natural resources. "People seem to be placing more value on these items since growth issues are on the front burner," he explained
The rest of the story at:
http://news.mywebpal.com/news_tool_v2.cfm?show=localnews&pnpID=728&NewsID=708874&CategoryID=3481&on=1