PRESS RELEASE: City of Morganton 03/03/2026
The City of Morganton is pleased to announce the appointment of Tom McKee as the new Electric Services Director. Tom brings extensive industry experience and a strong commitment to reliable, community-focused service.
City Manager Sally Sandy said, “Tom understands that to be a successful public power provider today requires strategic planning and decision making that goes beyond ‘keeping the lights on’.”
McKee comes to the City from Cartersville, Georgia where he served as the Electric Utility Director. He brings 16 years of progressive experience in the electric utility industry across multiple industry disciplines.
McKee has proven success in the areas of electrical distribution, generation, transmission and supply chain management. He is excited to use his experience he has from working in municipal and investor-owned utilities to help Morganton grow and flourish. In Georgia, McKee has worked with the Georgia version of ElectriCities and the American Public Power Association.
McKee said, “I want to be a resource for those working in the field that do the work every day. I want to make things easier for them. I want to bring ideas in and see what helps the department.”
He enjoys hunting, spending time with his family in the outdoors and is excited to explore the Morganton area.
McKee said, “Morganton sounds like a great community and a great place to raise a family. I am really excited to start working to see where we can make improvements for the customers, citizens and employees.”
Sandy said, “The electric utility industry is changing rapidly. Increased power demands and technological advancements are driving growth opportunities. McKee has hands-on experience in leading his team and community through modernization of electric infrastructure, technology upgrades and customer service efforts. Tom’s understanding of customer service along with his technical experience makes him a great fit for the Morganton Electric Services Department and the City’s management team. I am excited to welcome Tom and his family to the community.”
McKee is set to start as director on March 16th. Brooks Kirby, the previous director, retired on March 1st.
