The Town of Farmville has named Dr. C. Scott Davis as interim town manager following the retirement of longtime Town Manager Gerald Spates.

Spates abruptly announced his retirement Aug 26.

During a special called meeting regarding the retirement of Spates, Mayor David Whitus informed Davis that the council accepted the town manager’s retirement letter effective immediately and approved appointing Davis as interim town manager with a 10 percent salary increase effective Aug. 26.

In a July 2017 article in The Farmville Herald, it was noted that Davis would be making $98,838 annually as assistant manager.

Davis has served as the Farmville assistant town manager since October 2017.

In an interview with The Farmville Herald last month, Davis said he intends to build trust and stronger relationships with employees during this time of transition. “I want to ensure the mayor, Town Council, and the community that the employees and our staff will continue to make Farmville a great place to live, work and play.”

Prior to his position as the Farmville assistant town manager Davis was the director of planning and community development for the City of Colonial Heights.

Davis has a doctorate and a resume heavy in local government experience at various levels and an educational background rich in policy and public administration.

From 2009-15 Davis served as mayor of Colonial Heights after having served as a councilman for six years. He has held various positions at Richard Bland College of William and Mary, including director of advancement and alumni relations and chief of police.

“The Town of Farmville and the City of Colonial Heights have many similarities,” Davis said in an Aug. 17, 2017, edition of The Farmville Herald. “Both communities strive to provide excellent service while keeping a small-town feel.”

Davis earned his Doctor of Law and Policy degree from Northeastern University. He earned a master’s degree in public administration from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Next month, the Farmville Town Council is scheduled to hold a meeting with local government consultants to receive information on developing the search process for the next town manager.

According to Farmville Mayor David Whitus that process could take from six to 10 months.