Snellville City Manager Resigns, Mayor Issues Statement

(Editor's Note: This article was originally published February 7, 2012.)

Snellville's city manager Russell Treadway tendered his resignation today, ending nearly four years as the city's chief staffer.

Treadway is leaving to become city administrator in Sevierville, Tenn., where he previously served in the same capacity for 16 years.

"It is extremely rare for a manager/administrator to get the chance to return to a community they have previously served," Treadway said in his resignation to Mayor Kelly Kautz. " I am excited and grateful for that opportunity."

Treadway also said that it had been "an honor and privilege to serve" as city manager in Snellville. Hired in June 2008, Treadway added that his time has been "both challenging and stimulating."

In an acknowledgement of recent changes, Treadway also said that the city has made great strides in spite of those shake-ups. Much has been done, he added, to prepare Snellville for future success.

"I believe that we have achieved a measure of stability in the city government despite the almost total turnover in the city's elected leadership," he wrote in his resignation letter. "This was accomplished, in large measure, by the continued day-to-day professionalism of our dedicated city employees.

"I am hopeful that you and the city council trust, respect, and value the outstanding men and women that serve this city. They are truly the ones that make Snellville proud."

Quoting former UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, Treadway added: "That it is amazing how much can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit."

In an email statement from the mayor, Kautz said:

"It is with mixed emotions that I announce the resignation of our city manager, Russell Treadway. As part of the council that hired Mr. Treadway almost four years ago I am saddened to see him leave, but I am happy to see a friend able to return to his home in Tennessee to retire.

"Mr. Treadway has been an asset to our city. During his tenure he has helped increase our general fund savings by almost 10 percent.  Mr. Treadway will leave difficult shoes to fill, but I believe that by working together the Council can accomplish this challenge.

"I have already begun the process by meeting individually with council members. We will have a specially called meeting this week, and I will be nominating an interim city manager in the coming days, so that council may take its time in conducting a search for a permanent replacement. The mayor and council wishes Mr. Treadway and his family the best." 

Although Treadway is required to give a 60-day notice, which would make his resignation effective April 7, the mayor has said that the city may ask for his resignation to be effective immediately.

Snellville Patch will follow up when we have more details.