03/27/2024
Spread the love

by Charlotte Smith

Yesterday it was confirmed, Town of Elizabethtown Manager Eddie Madden has accepted the new position of County of Columbus Manager. He will start his new adventure in about 60 days, which leaves a little time for good wishes for the Manager voted “Best of the Best” Municipal Worker.

Many say Mr. Madden is a great visionary. He has made numerous improvements over the past 13 years to Elizabethtown, Bladen County, and North Carolina while serving as Town Manager. He was on the job when downtown Elizabethtown was renovated to the beautiful landscape you see today. Last year when downtown was threatened by a fire consuming C.A. Nails, Mr. Madden was on the scene directing traffic and assisting Firefighters securing the area. 

Mr. Madden’s vision was an integral part of the creation of the Cape Fear Farmer’s Market, the new airport terminal building, improvements to many parks, the new Browns Creek Bike Park and Nature Trail, and most recently, the development of the Greene’s Lake Conservation Park. 

The Town of White Lake used Mr. Madden’s talents to lead their new multi-use path project. With his leadership, the Town of White Lake secured grants and paved a new outside leisure and exercise area for the public to enjoy. Mr. Madden has also joined forces with other State leaders to support positive changes and promote growth. He has promoted the Mountains to the Sea Trails, the North Carolina Interscholastic Cycling League, and North Carolina Main Street and Rural Planning Center.  

During difficult times, Mr. Madden responded by giving his time and talents to offer Elizabethtown residents hope. After two significant hurricanes threatened the city cemetery, he worked numerous hours with engineers and contractors to secure and repair the cemetery. When the local EMS building was destroyed beyond repair due to hurricane damage, Mr. Madden led the way again. He and his team secured grants to build a new Fire and EMS building, providing a clean, safe new area for emergency responders to call home on the job while using local building contractors to get the job done. 

Mr. Madden has made a difference as a business leader and a civic leader. He was elected President of the Elizabethtown Rotary Club. Under his guidance, the club gave humanitarian assistance to those in need locally and globally, and he helped organize a 5K fundraiser that donated thousands of dollars to the USO (United Services Organization). 

As an Ex-Officio serving the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Madden was vital in planning many successful events like the summer concert series, the Christmas Parade, and expos. He also assisted in planning numerous educational opportunities in the area.

The list could go on, but time is limited. There is no doubt Mr. Madden earned the title “Best of the Best” for all his work. We will miss him, but wish him the best in his new position.  

About Author