Tom Garrett will start as assistant county manager Monday, and he’s looking forward to using his experience and education to serve the citizens and help the county run efficiently. Garrett, who had been the transportation director, accepted the Newton County Board of Commissioners’ offer this week to become assistant county manager and be groomed to take over the top spot when County Manager John Middleton retires in September. Garrett’s salary will be $82,316, halfway between his prior salary of $78,644 and Middleton’s saary of $85,987.20.