Embattled Blytheville finance director Faye Griggs is no longer employed by the city of Blytheville.
"She retired about two weeks ago," after more than 20 years with the city, Councilman Stan Parks said at Thursday's Finance and Purchasing Committee.
LaVera Kuykendall has replaced Griggs as head of the Finance Department.
Griggs and former Blytheville Mayor Barrett Harrison's administration came under fire earlier this year, when it was revealed the city owes the IRS $3.8 million in back payroll taxes.
Last month, Blytheville Mayor James Sanders said he anticipated changes in the Finance Department.
"After prayerful and careful consideration, and weighing all my options, I have decided to retire from the city of Blytheville Friday, July 1, 2011, at the end of the business day," Griggs wrote in a letter to Sanders dated June 16. "I am grateful to you and the city for having had the opportunity to work and serve for these past 23 years and I wish Ms. Kuykendall and the Finance Department the best in this transition process. Again, thank you and I look forward to what your leadership has in store for Blytheville."
Sanders said Kuykendall has owned a business -- K&W Tax Service and Insurance. She has already overseen one city payroll.
"Her knowledge of taxes and how to remit payroll" is an asset, Sanders said. "She's working very well with (city treasurer) Gary Perry. We've got a lot of confidence in what she brings to the table."
mbrasfield@blythevillecourier.com