Through a public records request, the Rhino Times has obtained a copy of the resignation letter of former Guilford County Manager Marty Lawing, who was shown the door in December by Chairman of the Guilford County Board of Commissioners Skip Alston and other Democratic commissioners on the board. 

When it was obvious that Lawing had different plans and views from the board members, Lawing resigned.

Lawing’s resignation letter is dated Thursday, Dec. 17 – the same day Lawing packed up his office and left Guilford County government.

Lawing, who was noticeably displeased with the situation on his last day, turned in a resignation letter that maintained the dignity he was known for while serving as the county manager since 2013.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Guilford County in the capacity of County manager for the last 7.5 years,” he wrote. “I am proud of the accomplishments that we have made during that time. From the administrative and operational efficiencies, organizational improvements, increased accountability, improved public image and major capital projects the successes were very numerous.”

Lawing is correct that he left a much more efficient and reputable government behind compared to the one he inherited.

In his resignation letter, he also focused on the staff who had worked with him through the years.

“Without question, I am most proud of our county staff and department directors,” he wrote.  “They are true local government professionals that put service above self and strive for great government every day.”

The former manager went on to write that his time in Guilford County government had been both professionally and personally rewarding.

“Guilford County is a special community with many assets and many challenges,” Lawing wrote, adding that there was still a lot of work for the county to do.

“I wish you the best of luck in sustaining the county’s positive trajectory,” Lawing concluded.