Harrison, who began his career with the county as a sheriff’s deputy in 1996, and has served in the DARE program and as a School Resource Officer. In 2023, he volunteered to serve as interim Facilities Services Director where he took a hands-on approach. Harrison and his team cleaned and organized the warehouse, and he filled in at a convenience site, while he rebuilt the department. The reorganized department now employs staff with experience in HVAC, electrical, and other trades. 

Harrison developed a new personnel policy and successfully implemented the county’s first salary study in 15 years. He also transitioned the county through health plans, saving the county more than $2 million annually. 

“Jimmy can best be described as a versatile servant leader who understands no role is too big or too small for him to tackle,” said Caldwell County Manager Donald Duncan. “He serves county employees by making a commitment to get jobs done well. Most important, Jimmy cares for Caldwell County employees and the people the county serves. He does his job with compassion and pride.” 

Created in 1964, the North Carolina City and County Management Association (NCCCMA) is the professional association for city and county managers and assistant managers throughout the State of North Carolina.

Source: Caldwell County Chamber.