County Durham manager resigns after 6-week leave, board unanimously accepts resignation – WRAL News

The Durham County manager has resigned after being placed on leave six weeks ago.

Kimberly Sowell submitted her resignation, which was unanimously accepted by the Board of Commissioners Monday night.

In closed session, Nida Alam stated, “The board met in closed session and I will now consider a motion to accept the immediate resignation of County Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Sowell.” The board voted unanimously in favor.

Alam then added, “I will now consider a motion to appoint Claudia Hager as acting county manager, effective immediately until a permanent county manager is appointed.”

Again, the council voted unanimously.

Sowell went on leave Sept. 9, and district leaders have not said why she was on leave or if she will return.

Although the reasons for her departure have not been officially released, sources told WRAL in September that county officials suspected retaliation after raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest related to the vendor selection.

Deputy Superintendent Claudia Hager currently serves as Durham’s acting district manager.

Sowell had been with the district since 2022.