A new chapter begins for the City of Southport as Noah Saldo, the city manager, announces the appointment of Joey Kronenwetter to the position of finance director, effective May 5. Born and raised in Southport, Kronenwetter brings a unique blend of local insight and academic expertise to his role. Having graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Business Management, he expresses deep-rooted passion for contributing to his hometown. His journey into this leadership role stems from a lifelong aspiration to serve the community that shaped him.

With clear objectives in mind, Kronenwetter outlines an ambitious plan to enhance the city's fiscal health. In the initial three months, he intends to partner closely with Saldo and the outgoing finance director to craft a balanced budget proposal. By the six-month mark, he aims to expedite the submission of the city’s annual financial audit to the Local Government Commission. Looking further ahead, within his first year, he seeks to fortify the city’s financial standing while striving for recognition through the prestigious Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association. This strategic approach reflects his commitment to efficiency and accountability.

Kronenwetter's enthusiasm for fostering community engagement underscores his vision for transparent governance. He emphasizes the importance of residents feeling connected to their city's financial decisions, encouraging open communication and mutual respect. By inviting citizens to engage with him directly, he hopes to build trust and demonstrate responsible stewardship of public funds. His dedication to enhancing Southport's prosperity serves as a testament to the power of local leadership and the positive impact it can have on communities nationwide.