Special to the Herald

SPRINGFIELD – Although the term is not in her job title, Development Services Technician Kimberly Barlett resembles a “traffic cop.” She directs people in need of Effingham County government services to the appropriate place.

“Customer service has always been a part of my life,” Barlett said.

Barlett, who became a county employee 13 months ago, has considerable retail management experience. She served in the Effingham County Tag Office and Probation Services before assuming her current post July 11.

“I like what I’m doing,” Barlett said. “I’m all about information. I like learning and being a part of the whole development and growth of Effingham County.

“That’s the cool part.”

Barlett processes Effingham County’s permits and business licenses. She schedules building inspections as well.

“This (office) is kind of the hub for everyone,” she said. “I am the beginning. People start with me and I direct them to where they need to go if I can’t help them.

“I can help people most of the time because I have to have knowledge of inspections, zoning and what everybody does.”

Barlett strives to make people’s experience with the government as pleasant as possible.

“You have to figure out what they need and how to help them get it,” she said.

Her goal is to prevent stress and frustration.

“(Some) know what they need but they don’t always know how to get it," Barlett said, "and a lot of people don’t know what you need permits for and what you don't need permits for. I didn’t, either, until I got here.”

Barlett lives in Guyton with her husband and two daughters. She is a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.