Hamlet City introduces interim city manager Lane Bailey; Bailey outlines part-time schedule

The Hamlet City mayor opened the meeting and introduced interim City Manager Lane Bailey, saying Bailey "comes to us from Salisbury with 20 plus years experience in city management" and that the council expects stable leadership while it searches for a permanent manager. Bailey, who is in his second day on the job, told the mayor and council he had already met with staff and the city attorney.

"As you mentioned, I'll be here 3 days a week," Bailey said, adding that his usual on-site days will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. He said next week his schedule will shift to Monday through Wednesday and that he will be out of town the following week but available by phone if needed. "I'm looking forward to the opportunity and... excited to to to be part of the team," Bailey said.

Councilmembers used the remainder of the meeting to offer community updates. Councilmember Short thanked educators and city employees, noted that Juneteenth will be observed on June 19 and recognized June as African American Music Appreciation Month. Councilmember Covington invited residents to a downtown Fourth of July celebration at the depot and reminded attendees about local Legion baseball games. The mayor promoted a Food Truck Friday and cruise-in and noted a free marketing workshop sponsored by Big Tomato Marketing of Charlotte at Axe to Grind for local businesses.

The meeting then moved to other business, including a motion to enter a closed session to consult with counsel and discuss personnel matters.