DAWSONVILLE, Ga. — Less than a week after County Manager Randall Dowling resigned unexpectedly and the Board of Commissioners appointed Chief Finnancial Officer Vickie Neikirk as interim county manager, Commissioners have decided that Bill Tanner would be a better fit for the job.

In a called meeting Wednesday, the Board voted unanimously to approve Tanner.

Commission Chairman Mike Berg explained the sudden change by saying Tanner was one of the finalists for the job last February when Dowling was hired and the Board felt he has the experience to hit the ground running.

Neikirk is new to the county, having been hired as Chief Financial Officer in April. She is certified as a Financial Officer by the Carl Vincent Institute of Government at the University of Georgia. Commissioners felt her experience is more urgently needed in helping to manage the budget process that is about to begin.

Tanner holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from the University of Georgia and currently works as Supply and Logistics Officer for Dawson County Emergency Services. He has held numerous management positions during his career, including Superintendent for Georgia State Park and Amicalola State Park and Lodge.

Berg said the county has begun advertising for a permanent county manager.

While Dowling gave no reason for his resignation, Berg said it was voluntary.