Black Mountain town manager resigns
Town announces formal search for successor
Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
December 10, 2025
The Town of Black Mountain announced, Dec. 10, the resignation of town manager Josh Harrold. Photo by Fred McCormick
The Town of Black Mountain announced, Dec. 10, the resignation of town manager Josh Harrold.
The lead administrator of the municipality since 2018 will remain in the position until Jan. 26, 2026, according to a press release from the town.
The announcement noted Harrold’s leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic and Tropical Storm Helene, adding that $35 million in grant funding for critical infrastructure was pursued and obtained under his leadership.
“Although stepping away is not an easy decision, I believe it is the right time for new leadership to guide the next phase of growth and progress,” Harrold said in the press release. “My values no longer align with the councils’ values. I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will do all I can to support the council and staff during this process.”
The town council will begin a formal search for a successor, according to the announcement, while current assistant manager Jessica Trotman will support day-to-day leadership in an effort to ensure continuity through the transition.
Trotman will not serve as the interim manager, according to the press release.