FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — Franklin County has selected a longtime local government leader to serve as its next county administrator.

The Franklin County Board of Supervisors announced that Steven Sandy, the county’s current deputy administrator, will assume the role on February 1, 2026.

He will succeed County Administrator Christopher Whitlow, who recently announced his retirement.

Sandy has worked for Franklin County since 2015 and brings more than 27 years of experience in Virginia local government, including previous positions in Botetourt and Montgomery counties.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in natural resource management from North Carolina State University and a master’s degree in urban and regional planning from Virginia Tech.

He also earned a graduate certificate in public administration from Virginia Tech and completed the National Association of Counties High Performance Leadership Academy.

Sandy is a certified professional planner through the American Planning Association and holds certifications as a zoning administrator and transportation manager through the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials.

He also serves on the Virginia Broadband Advisory Council, an appointment first made by former Gov. Ralph Northam and renewed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

“I am so grateful that the Board of Supervisors has put their trust in me to serve as the next County Administrator for Franklin County,” Sandy said. “Mr. Whitlow has done a tremendous job in this role over the past several years and is leaving the county in a very good position. I look forward to continuing the work with the Board and our tremendous team of County employees.”

Board of Supervisors Chairman Ronnie Thompson said Sandy is “a great fit for this role,” citing his years of service in key county positions.

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