Raphel Maddox has resigned as Pierce County Manager effective January 1, 2026.
Maddox tendered his resignation at the conclusion of last Tuesday night’s (Dec. 2) regular commission meeting. The action came following a 15 minute closed session to discuss personnel.
Maddox has served as Pierce County’s manager since October, 2023. His hire was historic as he became the first African American hired for the position locally.
Maddox
“I’ve enjoyed my tenure in Pierce County, but there comes a time when you have to make a change and now is that time,” Maddox said.
Maddox said he has been offered another position with an offer that he could not turn down. He declined additional comment, pointing out that his hiring for the new job will not be official until January 1, 2026.
“I will have a full statement at that time,” he said.
In tendering his resignation, Maddox used a clause in his contract that requires the manager or the commission to give four weeks notice prior to vacating the position.
County Chairman Neal Bennett said Maddox will receive a three month severance package as provided for in his contract.
The Times filed an open records request to obtain details of the severance package and the county commission office released those details Monday morning, Dec. 8, prior to press time.
Under the terms of his employment contract dated October 4, 2023, Maddox will receive a severance payment in the amount of $29,378.76.
Bennett said no decisions have been made on a replacement for Maddox, but the commission would be discussing the vacancy during a called meeting Monday, Dec. 22, and will likely appoint an interim manager until Maddox’s permanent successor is hired.
