Barnesville Names Sole Finalist for City Manager Post

Richard Newbern, current Cochran city manager, selected after lengthy search

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The mayor and city council of Barnesville, Georgia have named Richard Newbern as the sole finalist for the position of city manager after a lengthy search process. Newbern currently serves as the city manager in Cochran, Georgia.

Why it matters

The selection of a new city manager is an important decision for Barnesville as this role is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations and long-term planning for the city. Newbern's experience as a current city manager in a nearby town suggests he has the necessary qualifications for the position.

The details

Barnesville officials conducted a lengthy search process before selecting Newbern as the sole finalist for the city manager role. Newbern has served as the city manager in Cochran, Georgia, a neighboring town, and is expected to be formally hired for the Barnesville position at the city council's March 2 meeting.

  • The mayor and city council of Barnesville named Richard Newbern as the sole finalist on February 18, 2026.
  • Barnesville is expected to finalize the hiring of Newbern as city manager at its March 2, 2026 meeting.

The players

Richard Newbern

The current city manager in Cochran, Georgia who has been named the sole finalist for the city manager position in Barnesville, Georgia.

Barnesville Mayor and City Council

The local government leaders in Barnesville, Georgia who conducted the search and selected Richard Newbern as the sole finalist for the city manager role.

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What’s next

Barnesville is expected to formally hire Richard Newbern as the new city manager at its March 2, 2026 city council meeting.

The takeaway

The selection of an experienced city manager like Richard Newbern signals Barnesville's commitment to stable and effective municipal leadership as the city looks to the future.