After serving just over four years as the Johnston County Tax Administrator, Sheila Garner announced her retirement on Monday.
Garner informed Johnston County Commissioners of her decision following their Monday morning meeting then met with her staff.
Garner has been the chief tax collector for the county since January 1, 2014 when she replaced Pat Goddard who retired after 12 years as administrator.
“It was a very hard decision to make,” Garner told WTSB News. “I really enjoy my job. It requires a lot of hours and it doesn’t allow for a lot of family time. I have a grandbaby. That grandbaby is growing up and I want to be more a part of her life. After almost 32 years it is a very difficult decision. I have thought about it for a good while.”
“There are a lot of people in this office who have a lot of experience. This office will be fine,” Garner said. “Things will continue to move forward as they always have.”
Mrs. Garner began her career with W.P. Ferris in 1985 when she handled the first computer-assisted revaluation performed in Johnston County. Following the revaluation she was hired by the Johnston County Tax Office as a Real Estate Analyst. From 2001 to 2014, Garner served as Real Property Supervisor and under the direction of Goddard completed two successful revaluations.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Board of County Commissioners, my staff, colleagues, and the citizens of Johnston County for the numerous support and opportunities given to me over the years,” Garner added. “I consider it a privilege to have worked with Johnston County, and to have had the opportunity to work with so many exceptional people over the years.”
Johnston County Manager Rick Hester said Mrs. Garner will be missed. “We all congratulate Sheila on a fantastic 32 year career and her upcoming retirement. She has done an incredible job. We will miss her greatly as a co-worker and as a friend.”
Garner’s last day on the job will be September 1st, 2018. Her departure comes during the middle of a property revaluation but she says her retirement will not have an impact.
The Tax Administrator position reports directly to the Board of Commissioners. The position will be advertised soon, Hester said.
During her tenure, the property tax collection rate has increased from 98.72 to 99.88 percent.
“I am truly blessed to work with a wonderful staff and to have had the opportunity to work with so many great citizens throughout the county. And while I know that I will miss my work here, I am excited to begin the next phase of my life which will allow me more time to spend with my family.”
Garner and her husband, Jerry, have a daughter and son in law, Christina and Charles Peacock and a granddaughter, Kennedy Grace.
