Fayetteville City Attorney Karen McDonald presented her letter of resignation to the Fayetteville City Council on August 15, 2023. McDonald will continue to serve as City Attorney until Sept. 15.

McDonald has served in the role since 2002.  During her tenure she has served on several boards and with associations pertinent to her role. Currently she is serving on the NC League of Municipalities board and recently completed a term as president of the NC Municipal Attorneys Association. In the role, she provided excellent and thorough guidance during the City’s rapid growth, ever changing landscape and challenges while developing strong relationships with City Council, the City Manager and City staff.

“Ms. McDonald’s approach to legal matters was sound, analytical and methodical. She cared for our City in a way that many people will never know,” said Mayor Mitch Colvin in a press release. “Her hard work and dedication are truly indicative of the ‘Can Do’ attitude of our City.”

McDonald led an office of five lawyers, five paralegals and support staff. As City Attorney, she provided legal advice and counsel to the City Council and City employees regarding matters that arise during the course and scope of their employment.

“Karen was remarkable in her duties over the past 21 years to the service of our City,” said City Manager Douglas J. Hewett in a press release. “Her ability to analyze legal situations to provide the best legal advice to the City Council was remarkable. She was a true leader in the office, taking care of her team and others who she worked around and will truly be missed.”

McDonald began her municipal career with the City of Fayetteville as Assistant City Attorney in 1995. From 1998 to 2000 she worked as a Staff Attorney for the Cumberland County Attorney’s office. After a two-year stay in Little Rock, Arkansas, she once again returned to the City of Fayetteville where she was appointed City Attorney by the Fayetteville City Council.

“During my 21 years, it has been my sincere honor to serve the city, its citizens and the City Council,” said City Attorney Karen McDonald in a press release. “Together, we have seen our city grow into a vibrant and prosperous community. We have successfully managed impacts of tornadoes, two major hurricanes and threats against Fort Liberty as a part of BRAC. Moreover, we have revitalized our downtown with residential developments, restaurants, and a minor league baseball stadium.”

McDonald will go on to serve the City of Raleigh as its next City Attorney. McDonald's first day with the City of Raleigh is Sept. 25.