News Flash

(October 15, 2025) – Roanoke County Administrator Richard L. Caywood, P.E., today announced two personnel changes, both effective December 1, 2025.

Deputy County Administrator Rebecca E. Owens will retire after more than 33 years of public service. Owens joined Roanoke County in 2000 as a Finance Manager, was later promoted to Director of Finance, appointed Assistant County Administrator in 2019, and became Deputy County Administrator in 2022. Prior to joining the County, she worked for the City of Salem.

“Rebecca is widely recognized as a strong leader, especially in local government finance,” said Caywood. “She has represented Roanoke County and the wider region through many committees, boards, and initiatives that have helped shape our community. Her dedication, expertise, and thoughtful leadership have had a lasting impact on our organization. All of us at Roanoke County are grateful for her more than 25 years of service and wish her the very best in a well-deserved retirement.”

Caywood also announced the appointment of Doug Blount as Deputy County Administrator to fill the vacancy created by Owens’ retirement. Blount has served Roanoke County since 2011, initially as Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism, and as Assistant County Administrator since 2022. Blount will begin his new role on December 1, coinciding with Owens’ retirement.

“Doug brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our community,” said Caywood. “His leadership, expertise, and vision will play a key role in shaping the future of our organization, and I’m excited to see the impact he will continue to make. Doug’s leadership has been instrumental in many of our recent economic development successes, including Wells Fargo, Mack Trucks, Publix, and many other important projects.”

Blount, a Roanoke County native, has nearly 30 years of local government experience, including 15 years with the Prince William County Park Authority in various leadership roles. In his time with Roanoke County, he has overseen the County’s capital program delivery and departments including Economic Development, Parks, Recreation & Tourism, General Services, Development Services, Libraries, and Planning.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to continue serving Roanoke County,” said Blount. “By collaborating with our talented and experienced team, we will build on the progress already made for our citizens. I am passionate about enhancing the region’s livability and look forward to advancing initiatives that benefit our residents, visitors, and businesses.”

Blount holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from East Tennessee State University. He and his wife, Melissa, have been married for 30 years and reside in Roanoke County. They have two adult children.