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Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby has announced that Gary Smith will serve as the county’s interim emergency management director, effective Feb. 21.

Smith previously served as the county’s emergency management director for seven years before his retirement in 2021. He will replace interim director Shannon Winters, who resigned from the position.

“I wish to thank Shannon for his service to the county,” Woodby said. “He served with dedication and integrity but decided to step away from this role for personal reasons.”

Winters’ last day on the job will be Feb. 21.

Woodby and Carter County officials are continuing their search for a permanent director.