Athens-Clarke County Names Niki Jones Acting Manager

In a Special Called Session on Friday, June 14, 2024, Mayor Kelly Girtz appointed Niki Jones as Acting Manager for the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government (ACCGov), effective July 13. Jones, currently serving as Assistant Manager, will step into the role following the resignation of Manager Blaine Williams, whose tenure concludes on July 12.

Jones brings over two decades of experience in local government, having joined ACCGov in May 2021 as Assistant Manager and recently serving as Deputy Manager. Prior to his tenure here, he held positions including Planning Director for the Town of Wendell, North Carolina, and roles in Raleigh and Durham.

Mayor Girtz expressed confidence in Jones, stating, “Niki has proven himself to be an exceptional leader. I am fully confident that Niki will succeed in this important role.” Jones, a graduate of East Carolina University, holds a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning and a Master of Public Administration.

“I look forward to continuing the great work ACCGov is doing for this community,” Jones remarked, expressing his readiness to serve Athens-Clarke County in his new capacity.