MANATEE COUNTY, FL (August 3, 2023) - The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) unanimously named Charles (Charlie) Bishop as Acting Manatee County Administrator today during a Special Meeting. Bishop replaces Acting Administrator Lee Washington, whose resignation for personal reasons was also accepted by the BOCC during the meeting.
“Mr. Washington stepped up when we asked and did the job,” said Manatee County Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge. “And thank you, Charlie, for stepping up to serve the county as well."
At age 18, Bishop joined the United States Air Force, where he earned his Master’s Degree in Public Administration. After 20 years of service, and as a retired veteran, Charlie found another way to serve, starting his career as a Project Manager and making a home in Manatee County.
In addition to his role as a Project Manager, he has served as the Facilities Services Manager, Infrastructure Division Manager, Construction Services Division Manager, and, for nearly 12 years, the Director of Property Management for Manatee County. He was named Deputy County Administrator in August 2021 and is one of two current Deputy Administrators.
“I’m honored and I appreciate the vote of confidence,” said Bishop, addressing the Board. “I want to thank (Deputy Administrator) Courtney de Pol, too,” he said. “This is a team effort.”