ELIZABETHTOWN — The Bladen County Commissioners have named anew tax administrator. Christopher Ellis, who is currently employed with the Robeson County tax department, will begin his duties here on Monday, Feb. 23. 

“Greg Martin and the board will have my full support to the vision that is already in place,” said Ellis. “I do want the citizens to know that I’m very excited about the opportunity and look forward to working with and for the citizens of Bladen County to ensure property taxes are valued equitably and fairly.”

Ellis has a vision for the Bladen County tax office that includes maintaining the level of effort and enthusiasm that already exists.

“I want the citizen to know that I’m going to come in and work with my staff and the citizens to ensure the best level of customer service is continued,” said Ellis.

According to Ellis, customer service and professionalism are number one.

“I’ve met with several of the staff there (in Bladen) and what I’ve seen is very impressive,” said Ellis.

According to Ellis, he learned in 2008 the tax administrator’s position was vacant, but at the time opted not to apply. When the position became vacant again, Ellis said he decided to apply for it.

“I interviewed with Greg Martin and the county commissioners,” said Ellis.

He was later contacted by Martin and informed he had been selected for the position.

Originally from Portsmouth, Va., Ellis served in the military and came to North Carolina as a result of that service. He has a bachelor of science degree in economics from Campbell University and is an N.C. certified real property appraiser and an N.C. certified tax assessor.

Ellis began his career in county government in Cumberland County where he worked as a real property appraiser for four years.

“There I appraised real estate and learned a lot,” said Ellis.

After spending those four years in Cumberland County, Ellis was hired by the Robeson County Commissioners to serve as the real estate division manager and assistant tax assessor with the Robeson County tax department in Feb. 2003.