Doug Shipley, who has served as Town Manager of Topsail Beach since July 2022, has submitted his resignation. His departure will be effective on August 29, 2025, allowing for a planned transition in leadership.
In a formal letter dated June 25, Shipley wrote to the mayor and Board of Commissioners that he no longer felt aligned with the town’s evolving political environment and leadership priorities.
“The political environment in Topsail Beach is evolving… [and] they differ significantly from the strategic goals and framework under which I was brought on to serve,” Shipley wrote.
— WECT
Watch the full story from WECT below:
Transition Plan Underway
Shipley affirmed his commitment to a smooth handoff and has offered to:
- Assist with onboarding a new town manager
- Support continuity on ongoing projects
- Provide documentation and project context
The town is expected to name an interim manager shortly and begin the formal recruitment process for a permanent replacement.
Highlights from Shipley’s Tenure
Shipley joined the town following his previous role as Assistant County Manager in Pender County. During his time in Topsail Beach, he focused on:
- Infrastructure planning and investment
- Adopting technology to improve services
- Fiscal accountability and transparency
- Civic engagement and resident communication
His leadership style was widely seen as pragmatic and organized, despite broader shifts in local political priorities.
Community Impact and What Comes Next
Shipley’s resignation arrives as local leadership continues to evolve and the town faces ongoing questions about growth, development, and coastal infrastructure. Residents and business owners will likely be watching closely as the search for a new town manager begins.
The Board of Commissioners is expected to move quickly to ensure a stable transition and continued momentum on key projects.
News Coverage and Video
Additional coverage is available from local news sources: