County Manager Mike Ruffin announced his retirement on Wednesday, June 22.

Ruffin’s last day will be Sept. 30.

In a memorandum to commissioners, Ruffin stated his decision comes after much contemplation and prayer, but determined that his retirement was necessary due to his daily commute that has become difficult.

“Although I love my job and greatly enjoy working with the staff and residents of Davie County, a daily commute of more than two hours has become more grueling for me. I have prayed about this decision for months and have perfect peace that this is the right decision for me at this point in my life,” said Ruffin.

Ruffin became the Davie manager in July 2014.

During his tenure, Ruffin has been instrumental in the adoption of a five-year Capital Improvement Program, work to upgrade the county’s bond rating, the sale of $54.5 million in bonds to help fund the new Davie County High School, work on the East Davie Sewer project, development of formal financial policies governing county spending and reporting, and a multi-million dollar upgrade of the county’s communication system for public safety agencies.

Ruffin spearheaded improvement of the county’s work place efficiencies by consolidating several county departments, appointing four major department heads and developing and implementing new personnel policies reflecting today’s best practices.

“Over the past 24 months, Mike has brought valuable insight and experience to Davie County management. The county has benefited from his innovative leadership and he will be missed. We wish him all the best in retirement,” said chair of the county commission, Terry Renegar.

Ruffin plans to work with staff and commissioners to develop a plan for the transition. Commissioners will begin addressing how the impending vacancy will be filled.