Newton Citizen

COVINGTON - Covington City Clerk and Finance Director John H. Grotheer Jr. has resigned after more than 12 years of service. Grotheer has accepted a position as the finance director for the newly incorporated city of Dunwoody.

Grotheer tendered his resignation, effective Jan. 20, to City Manager Steve Horton on Monday.

"My twelve and one-half years as Covington's finance director/city clerk have provided me with many wonderful opportunities of professional growth," his resignation letter states.

"As I recently reported to the mayor and council, in the past twelve years Covington has always operated in the black and is currently in sound financial condition. As I leave, I wish you and the city continued success," the letter concludes.

City Manager Steve Horton said the duties of city clerk and finance director will likely be divided into two separate positions.

"I have no replacement yet, but we do have a list of applicants for consideration as finance director," he said.

Horton expressed his appreciation for Grotheer's service.

"John is a thoughtful and caring person and a dedicated employee. He has worked very hard and sometimes long hours in the service of the citizens of Covington during the last 12 years," he said. "Personally, John and I have become good friends. I hate to see him leave, but I wish him the best in his new career with the city of Dunwoody."

Grotheer said he's thrilled to have a new position with the fledgling city, which began formal operations Dec. 1 after residents approved a cityhood referendum last summer.

"I feel that it's a real gift from God. I'm very honored and grateful for the opportunity," he said.

Grotheer and his wife, Diane, a psychologist with the Newton County School System, will continue to live in Covington for the time being, but plan to eventually move closer to his new job.

"It's a new chapter in our lives," he said.

Crystal Tatum can be reached at crystal.tatum@newtoncitizen.com.