Opportunity Center Superintendent Lew Hurst summed up his staff's accomplishments for 2012 to members of the Seneca County Board of Developmental Disabilities Tuesday evening.
He complimented Children's Services Director Rick Gagnon on his leadership while working with difficult children and making improvements to the Early Intervention program. Adult Services Director Rod Biggert has transformed the adult area in less than a year and is accomplishing matching staff to client needs. Biggert hopes to enhance the arts and crafts program for clients.
Hurst said Human Resources Director Janet Vay has done a great job hiring personnel and keeping down health care costs. He said Cynthia Morrison has been a leader of self advocacy in the state, speaking to other counties about Seneca's self determination program. He said the Steps Toward Independence and Responsibility is an exceptional program.
Hurst said Nyoka Craddolph has worked hard to stabilize the budget and hired the best service and administrative staff in the region.
Ron Davidson, transportation director, was praised for his department's work in meeting the facility's needs which have been enhanced by the installation of Zonar, a GPS system in the bus fleet.
Other superintendents recently told Hurst that Seneca County always is on the cutting edge with an indication of the long term. He said they remain stable due to business manager Dick Williams, who is the leader of his state organization. He has helped with many fiscal issues across the state.
Hurst along with fellow board members recognized outgoing board member Ken Goshe after serving seven years. Goshe said it had been a pleasure and good learning experience for him. He noted the staff and the dedication of the other board members for service to the residents of the county.
Laura Shipley, retiring after 12 years as a bus aide and driver at the Opportunity Center, was accompanied by her husband, Tim, for a recognition ceremony by the board.
Williams reported 97 percent of revenues have been received while the Opportunity Center has expended 73.5 percent of their budgeted funds for the year. He noted a $58,472 payment to the Tiffin Developmental Center for services provided to a client.
Williams presented the proposed 2013 budget appropriations to board members for approval along with a five-year forecast that projected a deficit in year 2015. The budget and plan were approved as proposed.
In other matters, the board:
Recognized Carolyn Loudenslager for 13 1/2 years as a bus driver and unit manager.
Recognized Linda Eakin for 14 years of service as a clerical specialist for the Early Intervention program.
Recognized Glenna Bell for 18 years of service as bus aide, instructor assistant and unit manager.
Approved an appropriation for $2,520 to Title VI-B funds.
Approved the calendar year 2013 receipt book.
Resolved to contract with local school districts for services for 2013-14.
Approved payment of $14,000 for Ohio Association of County Boards annual dues.
Contracted with Dublin Management group for $6,000 to conduct a wage study as approved by the personnel committee.
Reviewed 11 policies making revisions to one.
Approved the donation of $4,000 toward the expenses of the Unity Conference in November.
Discussed future health care policies and costs.
Invited board members to the staff appreciation breakfast today.
The board is to meet at 5 p.m. Jan. 8.
