Staff report

SALISBURY — Diane Gilmore has been appointed Salisbury city clerk.

Gilmore will be sworn in on Sept. 19.

An 18-year city veteran, Gilmore most recently worked in the finance department, where she prepared budget research, assisted with preparation of the annual capital and operating budgets, administered the fuel card system and managed the corporate purchase card system.

The city manager appoints the city clerk, but the appointment must be approved by City Council.

As city clerk, Gilmore will be in charge of city records, manage public records requests, and maintain the city code. She will report to Kelly Baker, who will move into the role of assistant to the city manager.

Baker, who joined the city in 2003, formerly served as deputy city clerk and assistant to the city manager under City Clerk Myra Heard, who recently retired.

Baker has been tapped to develop the assistant position in which she will serve as the central contact for residents, legislation and government affairs; coordinate citizen participation programs; and facilitate and monitor the outcomes and goals adopted by the City Council.

“On behalf of the City Council, I welcome Diane Gilmore as the newest addition to the mayor’s office and congratulate Kelly on her new endeavor,” said Mayor Karen Alexander. “Diane brings considerable experience in city government, with a rich history of service to the city from customer service to finance and budget office experience.

“The fact that Diane is a lifelong resident of our community, combined with her long record of community service, made her the best choice for this position,” Alexander said. “Hiring talent from within our organization and creating opportunities for growth is vital for a strong city workforce.”

“Diane has been a valued public servant with Salisbury for more than a decade, and we are pleased that she was interested in continuing her service in this new and important capacity,” said City Manager Lane Bailey. “The city clerk has a vital role as the keeper of official city records and a key administrator for open government on behalf of our citizens. We are fortunate that we were able to promote from within for these two positions and provide Kelly an opportunity to grow the assistant to the city manager job.”

Gilmore holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and leadership from Pfeiffer University.

“As a Rowan County native, I’m looking forward to the learning experiences and adventures ahead as I take on new responsibilities with the city of Salisbury,” said Gilmore. “I am graced with the opportunity to grow professionally while continuing to serve the people of our great city.”