New county manager has deep roots in Jones County

Kyle Smith, a native of Trenton, assumed the role of Jones County Manager in May. Previous manager Franky Howard stepped down after 15 years to become the CEO of ONWASA. Smith was the county finance officer before the Jones County Board of Commissioners selected him to be the interim county manager. 

“I bring experience,” said Smith, who is 28 years old. “I have been with several departments within the local government. I started my career with parks and rec in Lenoir County, an internship with The Cooperative extension in Lenoir County, I taught AG in the school system, then to the Soil and Water conservation then to the finance department.” 

Smith is went to Jones County Public Schools. He has deep roots in the county as his father worked for Jones County Public Schools for over 30 years, and his mother worked for Jones County. Being a former student athlete Smith hopes his “never give up mindset” will help him succeed in this new role.

“I am a very determined individual, from a former athlete mindset,” said Smith. “I like to win and do a good job, I do not like to fail. I grew up playing baseball, where you fail a lot more times than you succeed. I think it helped me grow as a person.”

Smith hopes for more success in Jones County in areas such as workforce development, economic growth, community health, and community involvement. 

Smith assuming the role made it easier for Howard to step down knowing that the county will be in good hands. 

“I have the ability to have the biggest positive impact on the county from this role,” said Smith.