Sparta Explored Opening City Administrator To Outside Candidates Before In-House Hire

Sparta Mayor Jerry Lowery said there was conversation with Aldermen to open the city administrator job to outside candidates but ultimately decided to hire from within.

City Recorder and Certified Municipal Finance Officer Tonya Tindle was named the new city administrator. Lowery said the city wants to build a work environment where employees have a chance to move up.

“Sometimes it creates problems when you bring somebody in from outside to do that,” Lowery said. “Our last two administrators have not lived within the city or the county. So Tonya here is a lifelong resident of White County, and we think it will be a good fit.”

Lowery said he spoke with Tindle about her interest moving up. Lowery said he knew the hiring would happen when Tindle said she wants to be loyal to the city of Sparta.

Lowery said Tindle has proven herself as more than capable to take the job. She has over 20 years with the city and two stints as interim city administrator.