Brown appointed Douglas County manager

After six months serving as interim county manager, T. Michael Brown found himself in a room full of clapping and cheering people on Thursday morning. Douglas County commissioners had just unanimously approved his appointment as permanent manager.

"Beginning the budget cycle, negotiating with employees, elected officials resigning mid-term because of state health benefits: It is time we had stability," said Commission Chair Kelly Kite. "I can't say Michael Brown has exceeded my expectations because I have always had very high expectations for him, and he has proven me right the last few months."

Brown, 44, grew up in Oregon. Armed with degrees in both public and business administration, he started working for Douglas County about 11 years ago, most recently as assistant county manager. In March, he was appointed interim manager after sitting manager Dan Holler resigned for an administrative job in Grass Valley, Calif.

Brown will serve a two-year contract starting at $125,000 a year.

Gardnerville Town Manager Jim Park told commissioners they were making the right choice.

"What a good choice," he said. "He is a stellar manager. He has the ability to draw people into a room and build consensus."

Gardnerville resident Jim Slade, who had been a vocal critic of former county manager Dan Holler, lauded Brown's accessibility and professionalism.

"I think he believes in open and transparent government," he said.

Commissioners also appointed Gardnerville resident Karen Ellison to the county recorder position, which was vacated last week when Werner Christen retired after 30 years with the county.

Ellison, 50, has lived in the Valley for 16 years and has been a title officer for Stewart Title of Nevada Holdings, Inc. in Minden. She has a degree in business administration.

Starting at $71,650 a year, the county recorder is responsible for organizing and preserving county documents.