hometown heroes
GOVERNMENT
Life Management
City manager balances city life with personal life
by BRITTANYE BLAKE photography by ERICA THRIFT
Mark Barber is no stranger to the city of Valdosta . As City Manager , he truly has a hand in developing projects .
“ I feel as City Manager , I get the opportunity to repay a community that has helped me in many ways ,” he said .
Barber has an open-door policy for citizens and employees to voice their concerns or praises for any upcoming , current , or past projects .
He laughs at the memory of people joining him and his family in the booth at Longhorn ’ s to speak about their concerns .
Barber said , “ In local government , you are face to face with the people , which is why my door is always open to listen and understand .”
Barber is the City Manager to the community , but to his family and friends , he is a comedian , coach , and advocate .
Mark Barber has been Valdosta City Manager since 2017 .
10 Valdosta Scene | August 2022