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Pruett promoted to lead senior center
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A county native with more than two decades of local government experience has been selected to lead the Dawson County Senior Center.

Dawn Pruett, who has served as the center's finance liaison for the last year, assumed her new role of director last week.

She fills a position previously held by longtime leader Margie Weaver, who died in March after serving the seniors of Dawson County for nearly 30 years.

"I know that I have big shoes to fill as Ms. Margie was a great teacher and mother to all of us. She can never be replaced," she said. "I have a great group of people to work with at the center and the seniors that we get to serve are our family."

With a bachelor's degree in business administration from North Georgia College & State University, Pruett's 25-year career in county government spans varied roles.

Prior to accepting a position with the senior center, she served as chief appraiser for both the Dawson County and Pickens County tax assessors' offices.

"I am excited for the opportunity to serve as director of the Dawson County Senior Center. I truly believe that after working in county government for 25 years that God has placed me in a position where I belong," Pruett said.

County Manager Cindy Campbell said Pruett's management experience will be an asset as the senior center moves forward.

"Dawn did an excellent job providing leadership and ensuring programs continued to run smoothly as the [center's] interim director in the wake of Ms. Margie's sudden passing. Dawn has a passion for senior citizens and will provide solid leadership and enthusiasm," she said.

Officials also recently announced Dana Cleveland as the county's new waste and recycling center supervisor.

Public Works Director David Headley said Cleveland "brings to the county a strong and diverse background in solid waste management."

"His expertise and commitment to customer service will be a great contribution to the needs of Dawson County citizens," Headley said. "I'm excited to share in his vision for a more efficient and effective solid waste facility."

Cleveland replaces Tyler Jones, who resigned in March amid a criminal investigation into animal cruelty.

Jones was among two men cited after reports were made to the Dawson County Marshal's Office allegedly malnourished horses in a western Dawson County pasture.

The complaints were investigated by the marshal's office and the department of agriculture, which determined an older horse had died and two others were malnourished.

Dawson County Attorney Joey Homans said the case against Jones and the second man, Jim White of Dallas, has since been resolved.

"It involved paying repayment to Dawson County for the cost to investigate the case, a fine of approximately $500 and community service, all to be completed within six months of the date the judge accepted it," he said.

According to Homans, the fines have been paid and the county has been fully reimbursed.