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COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ga. — After nearly two decades of dedicated service, Columbia County Manager Scott Johnson has announced his decision to retire on January 2, 2027. His departure marks the end of an 18-year tenure during which he played a pivotal role in the county’s development and growth.
In his heartfelt announcement, Johnson expressed his deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve the community. “With a full heart and immense gratitude, I share my plans to retire as your County Manager,” he stated. “Working for this exceptional county has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. Together, we have achieved much, enhancing our family-friendly environment, promoting responsible economic growth, and consistently delivering high-quality services that enhance the lives of our residents every day.”
Below, you can read the complete statement from Scott Johnson regarding his upcoming retirement:
Scott Johnson, the Columbia County Manager, has officially declared that he will retire on January 2, 2027, bringing to a close 18 years of committed leadership in one of Georgia’s most rapidly expanding counties.
“With a full heart and deep gratitude, I announce my retirement as your County Manager,” Johnson said. “Serving this remarkable county has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.”
During his tenure, Johnson oversaw significant growth and development across Columbia
County, including major investments in infrastructure such as roads, parks, broadband, and
public facilities. His leadership emphasized strong fiscal responsibility while maintaining the
county’s reputation as a premier place to live, work, and raise a family.
“We have accomplished so much together,” Johnson said. “We strengthened our family-
friendly community while fostering responsible economic growth and delivering high-quality
services that improve lives of our residents every day.”
Johnson also highlighted the strong foundation built through years of collaboration, strategic
planning, and innovation, noting that the county is well-positioned for a seamless leadership
transition and continued success.
“I am leaving with immense pride in what we have achieved and complete confidence in the
bright future ahead,” he said. “Columbia County is in a strong position, financially sound,
forward-thinking, and ready for continued success.”
“To our citizens, thank you for the trust you have placed in me over the years,” Johnson said. “It
has been the honor of lifetime to serve this remarkable community.”
“On behalf of the entire County Commission, I want to express our deepest gratitude to Scott
Johnson for his 18 years of exceptional service as our County Manager,” said Chairman Doug
Duncan. “Scott’s dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for this community have left an
indelible mark on everything we do. Through budget challenges, growth, and times of
uncertainty, Scott has been a steady and trusted leader who always put the people of this
county first. It has been an honor and a privilege to work alongside him. We wish Scott all the
best in the next chapter, he has more than earned it. Thank you, Scott, for giving so much of
yourself to this county. Your legacy will be felt for year to come.”
Johnson’s retirement marks the close of a distinguished chapter in Columbia County’s history,
with future leadership poised to build upon the strong foundation established during his
tenure.