FRANKLIN—Mark Bly on May 16 will start as the new director of the City of Franklin Power and Light Department. Bly will be paid $92,000 a year.

He replaces Michael Stoneham, who resigned on March 31 due to personal reasons, City Manager June Fleming said. A 36-year-employee with Dominion Virginia Power, Stoneham came out of retirement in October 2009 to take the job in Franklin.

Bly is coming to Franklin after working in the same position in Culpepper. He will be responsible for administration and the day-to-day operations of the department and plan for its future.

Bly comes to Franklin with 30 years experience with electric cooperatives and municipal systems.

Fleming said Bly came highly recommended and had the most relevant work experience. He’s the current president of the Virginia Municipal Electric Authority.