The Albemarle City Council has promoted Darren Rhodes from an assistant role to its city manager position. Photo courtesy City of Albemarle

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ALBEMARLE — The city of Albemarle announced Tuesday that its city council has appointed Assistant City Manager Darren Rhodes as the next city manager, effective upon the retirement of current City Manager Todd Clark in August.

Clark is retiring after 35 years of service and a year as city manager.

“Darren Rhodes has proven himself to be a skilled, caring and ethical leader for our organization,” Albemarle Mayor Ronnie Michael said in a media release. “Darren’s understanding of the city’s operations is a valuable asset as we move forward with critical projects. City council is confident that Darren’s vast experience at both the local and state levels of government will help us build an even better future for Albemarle.”

Rhodes has been assistant city manager for Albemarle since Oct. 2022 and served as interim city manager last year.

“Serving the city of Albemarle is one of the most rewarding opportunities in my career,” Rhodes said. “I’m thankful for the trust city council has placed in me to lead the next phase of our city’s progress. I look forward to continuing to work with our elected officials, city staff and our community to provide a high quality of life in Albemarle.”

As city manager, Rhodes will oversee the city’s electric system, water and wastewater services, landfill facility, public housing department, parks and recreation department, police and fire departments and other municipal services.

Rhodes brings more than 30 years of experience at both the local and state levels of government. Prior to joining the city of Albemarle, he served as manager of the North Carolina Rural Planning Program, which focuses on economic development, planning services and support for cities and towns statewide.

Rhodes is a recipient of the Old North State Award, presented by the North Carolina governor to individuals who demonstrate “dedication and service beyond expectation and excellence to the Great State of North Carolina.”

He has a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Public Administration degree from Appalachian State University, along with a certificate in municipal government from the University of North Carolina School of Government.

At the Albemarle City Council meeting Monday night, council members made a series of unanimous membership decisions for five city boards and commissions. Most terms end on June 30, 2028:

Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation
Kristy N. Lee-Thao (new appointment)
Megan King (new)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Chris D. Almond (new)

Walk of Fame Advisory Board
Foster Parker (reappointment)
Judy Holcomb (reappointment)

Historic Resources Commission
Lauren Wagoner (reappointment)
John Williams (reappointment)
Lori Baucom (new)

Planning and Zoning Board
Tanner Denton (reappointment)
Robert McIntyre (reappointment)
Aaron Deese (reappointment)
Leslie Phillips (new, expires June 30, 2026)
Amber Farmer, alternate (new)

The Albemarle City Council is set to hold its next regular meeting July 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers.