Town manager Herms takes over, Weichel assists behind the scenes

CFO Bo Weichel may not be the interim town manager anymore, but his work is not done.

With the incoming Valdese Town Manager William “Todd” Herms, Weichel will be helping him transition into his new role.

After going into closed session Monday night, the Valdese Town Council made a motion to amend Weichel’s contract.

His interim role ended on Thursday, May 1, which in turn starts the new contract for Herms. The town was without a permanent town manager for more than 16 months, with the dismissal of town manager Seth Eckard on Dec. 1, 2023. Eddie Perrou was the interim town manager for about a month, followed by former Burke County manager Bryan Steen on Jan. 2, 2024. Then Weichel took on the role on Aug. 23, 2024.

Mayor Charlie Watts said that Weichel will continue his roles as CFO/assistant town manager and will be compensated for his help with the transition to new town leadership.

Weichel will receive a one-time bonus of $5,000. He will resume his annual salary of $119,733.

For the new town manager, Herms’ first day is Monday, May 5, and he will attend the regular council meeting at 6 p.m.

Herms is bringing to Valdese more than 18 years of town manager experience, from Maiden, Badin, and Alexander County.

Herms will begin with a salary of $165,000 a year, with an adjustment to $175,000 after six months. He also receives a $1,200 cellphone allowance since “the town recognizes that 24/7-365 communication between the Town and Manager provides significant benefits ….” He is also provided a $6,000 annual travel allowance.

“I’m truly honored for the opportunity to serve Valdese,” Herms previously said. “This is a special place, and I feel incredibly fortunate to join a dedicated group of elected officials and committed staff members. It’s a great community with an amazing story to tell.”