Hathaway elevated to administrator

A familiar face to New Kent County has been named as the new county administrator.

New Kent’s Board of Supervisors removed the interim tag and appointed Rodney Hathaway to the position during its regular session this past Monday.

“I want to thank the board for this opportunity,” said Hathaway. “I have been stopped at gas stations and grocery stores and given words of encouragement.”

Hathaway has maintained the duties on an interim basis since July 23 when Cabell Lawton was terminated from the position. Many board members commented that his work up to this point in time and in the past were contributing factors for his promotion.

“I worked with Rodney when I was a member of the planning commission and he’s always done a great job,” said District 1 representative Thomas Evelyn.

“He’s done a great job and he deserves it,” added District 4 representative Ron Stiers.

One supervisor credited Hathaway’s loyalty and experience for being named to the position.

“He’s worked here long enough,” said District 5 representative Ray Davis. “He knows what the county wants and what the county needs.”

Under the interim tag, Hathaway successfully negotiated a contract for the renovation of the New Kent Historic School, helped coordinate emergency services during Hurricane Sandy, and was vital during the election season.

“I am going to work hard and do what’s best for the county,” added Hathaway.

Hathaway will officially start his new occupation on Dec. 16.

In other news, New Kent County may finally have a new fire chief.

Hathaway confirmed that a second round of interviews conducted Monday afternoon may result in an offer to a candidate. He said that an announcement may come as soon as the end of the week if the position is accepted.