By Natalie Anderson
natalie.anderson@salisburypost.com

SALISBURY — Rowan County commissioners on Monday appointed Wendell “Chip” Main II as the new tax assessor for the county with a salary of $95,000 per year.

Main previously worked as assistant tax administrator in Pitt County and tax administrator in Washington County. He has more than 30 years of experience in tax appraisal and assessment.

“Chip is an experienced assessor who is down to earth, yet astutely precise, and we are fortunate that he has agreed to accept the appointment,” said Commissioners Chairman Greg Edds.

Main’s official start date is March 23, and he will serve the duration of interim tax assessor Phyllis Adams’ term, which ends on Aug. 26. He will then begin a full three-year term until Aug. 26, 2023. The Board of Commissioners will reimburse up to $5,000 in relocation assistance for Main.

In October, the board announced the resignation of then-Tax Administrator Kelvin Byrd, who had served since 2012. The board then appointed Tonya Parnell, formerly the tax collections manager, as the interim tax collector and Adams as interim tax assessor.

Commissioners conducted the last interview for tax assessor during a closed session board meeting on Feb. 24.

Man is a certified tax assessor, tax collector and real property appraiser II by the North Carolina Department of Revenue. He’s been a member of the International Association of Assessing Officers for 30 years and was awarded the North Carolina Appraiser of the Year award in 2015, according to a news release.

“I’m glad we found someone with Chip’s professionalism,” said Commissioners Vice Chairman Jim Greene. “He is relatable, easy to talk with and will do well in Rowan County.”

Main said he is honored to be selected for the position. In a news release, Main said he and his wife, Sharon, are looking forward to relocating to the area and getting to know citizens of the county.

Contact reporter Natalie Anderson at 704-797-4246.