Atlantic Beach honors retiring Town Manager David Walker after decades of service

The Atlantic Beach Town Council used its Feb. 27 meeting to honor David Walker as he prepares to retire after a decades-long career in North Carolina local government.

Brian Kramer, Pine Knoll Shores town manager, presented Walker with a plaque from Carteret County and municipal managers recognizing Walker’s 40 years of public service and said Walker “always answered the phone and was a leader.” Walker told the council, “It has been an honor and privilege to support the Town all these years.”

In his State of the Town remarks, Walker said the town’s revenues are strong, all positions are filled, and the fund balance is healthy. He said he leaves the town in excellent financial shape and praised the professional relationships built during his tenure.

Councilmembers offered personal remarks. Councilmember Joseph Starling recalled working with Walker both as an employee and as a councilmember and expressed gratitude for Walker’s mentorship. Councilmember Joey Dean thanked Walker for being responsive around the clock. Councilmember Danny Navey called Walker a leader and "a wizard with the budget." Mayor Pro Tem Austin Waters said Walker made the council’s job easy and would return calls quickly. Town Attorney Derek Taylor praised Walker’s managerial approach and reliability.

Mayor Cooper said he would reserve most remarks for an April retirement event but noted that Walker had not missed a single council meeting in 42 years and called him a friend. The meeting adjourned at 6:46 p.m.; the minutes were approved at the March 27, 2023 meeting.