DALTON, Ga. — Whitfield County government wants its main public voice to live closer to the community.

Brooke Bennett began as the first official spokesperson hired for Whitfield County and the city of Dalton in March 2007, but moved to Michigan last summer to be closer to her mom, who is ill. Mrs. Bennett continued her job though, telecommuting to serve as spokesperson for Whitfield County.

County Commissioner Randy Waskul praised her work, but said it’s time to hire someone who lives here.

“One of the goals of our public relations effort is to have our key contact in the community, interacting with not only the media, but also other community leaders and community organizations,” he said.

Mrs. Bennett said the time with the county has been a pleasure. “What a great group of employees they have on staff.”

She said there were benefits for her to have stayed on, but that time has passed. “It’s crucial to have a local public relations specialistm and I’m ready to move on with my life here in Michigan.”

County Administrator Bob McLeod said the interview process has begun to a replacement for the part-time public relations post, and the pay will be based on qualifications.