City of Morganton selects new electric services director

Staff at the City of Morganton will welcome a new leader to the electric services department in mid-March, following the retirement of Brooks Kirby.

Tom McKee will join the city on March 16, coming from the City of Cartersville, Ga., where he served as the electric utility director, according to an announcement from the city. He will bring 16 years of experience in the electric utility industry.

“I want to be a resource for those working in the field that do the work every day,” McKee said. “I want to make things easier for them. I want to bring ideas in and see what helps the department.”

McKee has proven success in electrical distribution, generation, transmission, and supply chain management. In Georgia, McKee worked with the state’s version of ElectriCities and the American Public Power Association.

“Tom understands that to be a successful public power provider today requires strategic planning and decision making that goes beyond ‘keeping the lights on,’” City Manager Sally Sandy said.

In his free time, McKee enjoys hunting, spending time with his family outdoors, and is excited to explore the Morganton area. He added, “Morganton sounds like a great community and a great place to raise a family. I am really excited to start working to see where we can make improvements for customers, citizens, and employees.”

The electric industry is changing rapidly as increased power demands and technological advancements are driving growth opportunities, Sandy said, adding that McKee has hands-on experience in leading teams and communities through the modernization of infrastructure, technology upgrades, and customer service efforts.

“Tom’s understanding of customer service, along with his technical experience, makes him a great fit for the Morganton Electric Services Department and the city’s management team. I am excited to welcome Tom and his family to the community,” Sandy said.

The hiring of McKee follows the city’s welcoming of another leader to a major city department. Randy Smith II joined the city on Friday, Feb. 27, as the new water resources director, following the retirement of Brad Boris. Both Boris and Kirby worked their last days on Friday, Feb. 27.

The electric services team and its superintendents will handle day-to-day operations until McKee starts in about two weeks.