Johnson elevated to county administrator for Charles City

Charles City County native Michelle Johnson has been announced as the new county administrator effective June 14. She takes over for Zach Trogdon, who resigned from the position to accept a job in Williamsburg.

Johnson has worked for the county for 12 years as the deputy county administrator and county finance director. Her appointment to her new role is historic, as she not only becomes the first deputy county administrator to be elevated, but she becomes the first female from Charles City to hold the position.

“I am greatly honored to represent Charles City,” Johnson said in a June 14 interview. “I am thankful for the opportunity to serve the citizens of the county that I love.”

Johnson commented that her experience combined with her knowledge of the locality will be beneficial in accomplishing future goals.

“I have a great handle on this county and the amenities that it needs,” she said, commenting on being raised and educated through the Charles City school system. “I am not going to change the face of the county but I want to provide those amenities while maintaining the rural aspect.”

Johnson spoke about short-term and long-term goals for the county, with most revolving around the upbuilding of Charles City.

“I want to focus on community development that will help both our youth and senior adults,” Johnson commented. “In the short term, I want to develop a strong management team and a team environment with the direct managers [of each county department]. I want to make sure this team works as a whole.

“Expanding this county economically is a long-term goal,” she added. “I want this county to benefit from resources and provide opportunities for future growth and development.”

Johnson concluded by saying she is looking forward to working with the locality as well as continuing to build stronger relationships with those she’s already worked with.

“I truly want to thank the county for the opportunity to serve them with excellence,” Johnson said. “I am going to be engaged and be their leader.

“I look forward to working within the community-based and faith-based groups and serving this entire county,” she concluded.