CHINA GROVE — A 24-year-old Surry County planner will become China Grove’s first town manager.
Aldermen unanimously approved a three-year contract for Ron H. Sutphin Jr. during a special meeting Monday evening.
Sutphin met with the board in closed session for about 15 minutes prior to the vote.
A smattering of applause greeted the vote which ends a seven-month search for a manager.
Mayor Joseph Sloop said Sutphin will begin work on or about Feb. 26.
Sutphin was graduated from Appalachian State University in 1999 with a degree in planning and management, and began work with the Surry County Planning Department.
He also worked during the summers for the Mount Airy city government during the tenure of Salisbury native Matt Bernhardt as manager.
Bernhardt had talked with China Grove aldermen and recommended they interview Sutphin.
His selection brings to an end a long search that has involved dozens of candidates.
“I don’t have a problem not being the No. 1 choice,” said Sutphin. “It’s a unique opportunity, and I am grateful for that opportunity. In the end, I feel like I’ll be the best choice.”
He will receive a salary of $47,000 a year, plus standard employee benefits including a 6 percent match on a 401 K plan.
The town also agrees to provide a $2,400 car allowance and a cellular phone and pay up to $3,000 in moving expenses.
The town also agreed to immediately credit the new manager with 10 days of sick leave and transfer sick leave from his previous job. He also gets 10 days vacation.
The town also agreed to provide Sutphin with a personal computer and software for his business and personal use.
As part of the employment agreement, the town can discharge Sutphin at any time and will have to provide four months severance pay, or $15,000.
The contract is renewable for an additional period of two years.
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