DURHAM, NC—In a swift transition following the recent resignation of Durham County Manager Kimberly Sowell, the Durham County Commissioners have appointed Claudia Hager as the new permanent County Manager. As reported by Bull City Citizen, the decision was made during a closed session on Monday, marking a pivotal leadership shift for the county.
Hager, who had been serving as Interim County Manager, expressed her gratitude and commitment to leading the organization. “I felt honored and humbled when the county commissioners asked me to consider stepping in permanently as a manager and provide leadership continuity,” Hager said. “I want to thank them for entrusting me with this opportunity to lead this wonderful organization.”
Chairwoman Nida Allam celebrated the appointment, noting the board’s collective excitement and even mentioning a moment of joy when board members sang together following the announcement. Hager will officially be sworn in next Monday.
The departure of Kimberly Sowell remains shrouded in mystery, as officials have not disclosed the reasons behind her resignation. Sowell had been on paid leave since September 9, and Commissioner Brenda Howerton emphasized the legal constraints preventing further explanation. “We want to follow the law at all times,” Howerton wrote to CBS 17. “If citizens have a problem with this law, they should take it to Raleigh.”
Despite repeated inquiries from CBS 17, neither the district nor the former superintendent has provided further details. As the community awaits more clarity, Bull City Citizen will continue to monitor the unfolding developments surrounding the county’s administration.