Harlem welcomes newest employee

Harlem officials recently welcomed the city's newest employee -- an assistant city manager.

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"We're glad to have you on board," Mayor Bobby Culpepper said as he welcomed Jason Rizner at Monday's monthly city council meeting.

Rizner, who was chosen from 53 applicants, started the newly created position and ended his first day in his new post with the meeting.

"It has been a great day so far. I've really enjoyed it," said Rizner. "They kept me busy."

Rizner is a graduate of the University of Georgia and Mercer University School of Law. He previously worked with the developer of Reynolds Plantation, near Lake Oconee, Ga., as director of the Property Owners Association. Rizner operated a general law practice in Greensboro, Ga., for several months before accepting the Harlem position.

Rizner said he and his wife plan to purchase a home in the city.

"We are looking forward to Jason joining our team and becoming part of the Harlem community," City Manager Jean Dove said.

Rizner will be learning the day-to-day operations of the city as well as Dove's job.

Also at the meeting, city officials approved a bid of about $57,000 to Piedmont Water Co. of Eatonton, Ga., to extend water lines to the McDuffie County line along West Milledgeville Road. The water line would provide a back-up water source for the city from the McDuffie County system, Dove has said.

City Engineer John McClellan of G. Ben Turnipseed and Associates said his company has worked successfully with Piedmont Water on many previous projects.

"And it is an excellent price, too," said McClellan.

Initially, $80,000 was allocated for the project.

A pre-construction meeting will be scheduled in about 30 days.