HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — Henry County's Election Director Ameika Banks has resigned following the discovery of several infractions and administrative errors, officials announced Monday.
County officials did not provide details on those infractions or administrative errors — 11Alive is working to learn more. However, they did say that Banks, who served in the role for several years, stepped down after an internal review identified procedural mistakes. Officials said that while these issues were concerning, they did not impact the outcome of any election.
By his authority, Chief Superior Court Judge Brian Amero appointed Assistant Elections Director Leigh Phillips to be the interim director effective immediately. Officials said that since Phillips has several years of experience with a deep understanding of the county's electoral process, this will ensure there's no disruption to the upcoming election cycle. Phillips' leadership will focus on reinforcing transparency, efficiency and integrity in the election operations, according to a release.
County Manager Cheri Matthews said that the Elections Board and the interim leadership team are well-equipped to guide the county through this transition.
"We want to ensure the public that despite the recent challenges, Henry County's commitment to upholding a fair, transparent and secure elections process remains unwavering," Matthews said.
A house bill requires the senior judge of the Superior Court of the Flint Judicial Circuit -- upon recommendation by the grand jury of Henry County -- to select a new Elections Director.
Officials said that as the Elections Office prepares for the 2024 general election, there will be an emphasis on reinforcing training, ensuring strict adherence to state and local election laws and bolstering voter confidence.
