Assistant City Manager to retire after 31 years with the city

Carol Rhodes, longtime assistant city manager, will retire Feb. 13 after 31 years with the city.

Rhodes began her career with the city in 1994 as secretary to Ray Beck, the city manager at the time. She then served as assistant to the city manager for 16 years before becoming assistant city manager in 2012.

“Carol has been a pillar at the City of Columbia during her time in the organization,” City Manager De’Carlon Seewood said in the release.

Seewood said “the institutional knowledge and leadership she brings to the organization are highlighted through many successful initiatives,” pointing to overseeing the strategic planning process, forming the city’s Contact Center and leading the Community Summit.

Rhodes said helping the city as it has grown over the years was a “privilege.”

“I am most proud of the mentorship and relationships I have developed with various staff members that have resulted in their career development and growth,” Rhodes said in the release.