Coalson named city finance director

Mount Airy has a new finance director — although the word “new” doesn’t really apply, given Sherri Coalson’s familiarity with the work environment at City Hall.

Coalson previously was employed there for 11 years, serving the municipality in various capacities, before recently returning as finance director.

That position’s responsibilities include overseeing city government revenues and expenditures, along with playing a major role in preparing the municipal budget each year.

Coalson is replacing longtime Finance Director Pam Stone, whose promotion to assistant city manager had been announced on Feb. 1 in the wake of Darren Lewis’ Jan. 18 introduction as Mount Airy’s next city manager.

This was after Lewis served as interim and earlier assistant manager.

Stone’s transition triggered a search for her successor soon after, leading to the selection of Coalson.

“We are excited to have Sherri back with us,” Stone said when introducing Coalson as finance director during a meeting of the Mount Airy Board of Commissioners earlier this month.

“Sherri brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, particularly in municipal finance,” Stone added.

Although she was mentioned as the “newest” member of the city team, Coalson first joined the staff in 2011 as a revenue collections assistant.

“Over the years, she showcased her dedication and expertise,” according to Stone, “earning promotions to roles of increasing responsibility.”

This included Coalson assuming the job of tax collector in 2014, “where she consistently achieved high tax collection rates, benefiting the city’s financial health,” Stone continued.

In recognition of her increasing capabilities, Coalson was promoted to staff accountant in 2019.

“Throughout her tenure, Sherri seamlessly transitioned between roles, covering vacancies and contributing significantly to the Finance Department’s operations,” Stone advised in announcing Coalson’s “new chapter” with city government.

“Her experience and proven track record make her a valuable addition to our team,” the assistant city manager commented. “We are confident that she will make significant contributions to the city’s continued success.”

Requirements for the finance director position include a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field and considerable experience in public finance administration including supervision, or a combination of education and experience.

Unlike other high-level positions in city government, the finance director has been one of stability over the past four decades.

Stone served in that role for more than 10 years, including becoming interim finance director when John Overton vacated the top position in January 2014 and subsequently director later that fall.

Before that, Overton was Mount Airy’s finance director for 22 years.