William “Todd” Herms
Gary L Herman
Following an extensive search and interview process, the Alexander County Board of Commissioners has selected William “Todd” Herms to serve as the new County Manager, effective August 12. Herms’ appointment was formally announced at a special meeting on Wednesday, June 26 at 6:00 p.m.
“We are pleased and excited to welcome Todd Herms to Alexander County. With his experience, financial expertise, and personality, he was the perfect candidate to lead our great county into the future,” said Josh Lail, Commission Chairman. “His governmental management experience in our region is significant, as we have witnessed his leadership and associated success first-hand. We look forward to working with Todd for years to come as we continue to improve the quality of life here in Alexander County.”
Herms has 18 years of experience as a municipal manager in North Carolina, having served as the Town Manager for Maiden since July 2008 and the Town Manager for Badin from 2006-2008.
“It is my distinct honor to be selected as the next Alexander County Manager. Having worked in nearby Maiden for 16 years, I am very familiar with Alexander County, its people, and its economy,” said Herms. “This is a very exciting venture as I have the opportunity to work alongside a strong Board of Commissioners, a dedicated staff, and the great people of Alexander County. Together, I’m confident that we will do great things.”
He continued, “Being from a rural community, I understand what it means to rely on agriculture for one’s livelihood. Growing up on a turkey farm gave me a strong work ethic, instilled responsibility in me, and taught me the value of time management and what it means to be a good neighbor. These are all traits that I will bring to Alexander County as the new County Manager.”
During his time in Maiden, Herms focused on economic development and growth, evidenced by the town’s 765% growth in the tax base since 2008, which includes three different billion-dollar projects.
“I will work hard to gain the trust and respect of Alexander County’s elected officials, citizens, business community, and staff,” said Herms. “Living and working within the Unifour region, I have a unique understanding of the challenges, as well as the great opportunities, in Alexander County. I’m excited to meet everyone and hit the ground running as we move the county forward.”
Chairman Lail said there were 20 applicants for the county manager position.
“Of those who applied, we were especially interested in Todd and his experience in municipal management, budgeting, and economic growth,” said Chairman Lail. “Todd is a perfect fit for our community, and I encourage everyone to give him a warm welcome.”
Herms attained his Master of Public Affairs degree and Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Western Carolina University. He is also a graduate of the Municipal and County Administration Course and the Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA) at the UNC School of Government. He also completed the Williamsburg Leadership Institute and the Gettysburg Leadership Institute offered by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA).
The Western Piedmont Council of Governments (WPCOG) assisted Alexander County with the manager search process. The WPCOG is a regional planning, service, and economic development agency owned by and serving the 28 local governments in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties.