Merritt named new City of Shelby manager
- Staff Reports
- Aug 27, 2025
- 1 min read
In a press release posted on social media late Wednesday morning, The City of Shelby, announced the selection of former Assistant City Manager and Finance Director Justin Merritt as the new City Manager for the City of Shelby.
The statement mentioned current City Manager Rick Howell announcement of his plans to retire at the end of the year.
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Merritt served as Assistant County Manager for Catawba County.
He first worked for Shelby back in 2012, serving as Director of Finance and was named Assistant City Manager in 2020 where he served until taking the position with Catawba County in 2023.
"We are extremely excited to welcome Justin back to Shelby. One of the most important duties of the City Manager is financial management and budgeting. Justin's extensive experience in this area and knowledge of Shelby made the decision an easy one" said Shelby Mayor Stan Anthony in the press release.
The statement also noted Merritt’s academic background, noting he holds a Master of Public Administration from NC State University and Bachelor of Business Administration from Campbell University.
“He has also been active in professional and civic organizations having served as president of the Shelby Rotary Club and board member of the Dover Foundation, Inc. here in Shelby,” the statement said of Merritt.
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