Athens-Clarke County Attorney Bill Berryman is retiring from his position on June 30, 2019 at the conclusion of this fiscal year. Berryman has planned his retirement for several years, having served as Athens-Clarke’s attorney since 2003. Prior to his time in the position, he worked for 25 years as a private attorney representing both public- and private-sector clients.

Mayor Kelly Girtz has asked Berryman to continue his service to Athens as a contract attorney for specific projects where he holds significant institutional knowledge, such as build-out of Athens-Clarke County's quickly-developing bike/pedestrian trail system. 

"Bill has given so much to this community, and his work has left Athens a safer and a more vibrant place to live," said Girtz. "I understand his desire to live a less frenetic life than can be afforded by working in local government and appreciate his willingness to help us pursue our next steps with some of the significant projects with which he has been involved.”

Athens-Clarke County has advertised for candidates for the Attorney position, which is appointed by the Mayor and Commission. Girtz is planning to hold initial interviews for the post at the end of May. The position coordinates a host of activities including planning and zoning issues, contract matters, composition of new ordinance code sections, human resources law, intergovernmental actions, and the real estate tasks of local government.