Staff report

SALISBURY – Salisbury Finance Director Teresa Harris has announced her retirement, effective Dec. 29.

Harris began work with the city in 1990, serving as productivity analyst and budget and performance manager. She was appointed financial services manager in 2012 and was promoted to finance director in 2015.

During her time as finance director, Harris has been responsible for planning, organizing and directing the financial activities of the city including accounting, payroll, budget preparation, performance management, benchmarking, debt management, purchasing and investment, and cash management.

“Throughout Teresa’s tenure, she has been a valued employee of the city,” said City Manager Lane Bailey. “I credit her for continued strengthening of the city’s budget management and financial reporting during her time as finance director. We appreciate that she has dedicated 27 years to public service and wish her well as she begins this new chapter in her life.”

Harris is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she received a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She is a former recipient of the Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. She also participated in the North Carolina Benchmarking Project and established a Performance Management Program.

“It has been exciting to be part of an excellent team in the city of Salisbury for over 27 years,” Harris said. “There have been opportunities and challenges in providing services to the citizens, but it is satisfying to look around and see the projects in which I have been involved. Now I am ready for the next phase of my life, which will include more time with my grandchildren, hobbies and volunteer activities.”