Bowlin appointed as interim administrator
Polk County Tax Assessor John Bridgers resigned last week to take a position with the State of North Carolina. Commissioners decided not to fill his position immediately, but rather appointed tax collector Melissa Bowlin as interim tax administrator.
Commissioners met Monday, May 7 and after discussing the issue in closed session, approved Bowlin’s appointment. Commissioners said following the meeting the new board should decide on Bridger’s replacement. The board of commissioners has three open positions, and a new majority could be elected this November.
Bridgers was Polk County’s first tax assessor following a decision to split the tax collection office and the tax assessor’s office a few years ago. He was hired on Aug. 1, 2007, having come from Yadkin County, and his last day was May 4.
Next year’s proposed budget includes funding for a tax assessor.