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WARREN -- The Trumbull County Engineer's office recently hired a Weathersfield trustee to add to its management team.
Trustee Steve Gerberry was introduced at the March 8 county commissioners' meeting by the engineer's administrative assistant, Steve Papalas.
Gerberry, who will be paid $19.71 per hour, said he will hold the title of deputy administrative assistant, serving under Papalas, who makes $23.30 per hour.
Engineer Randy Smith said the staff is being restructured with the retirement of one highway supervisor -- James Dicenso -- Jan. 31 and the expected retirement of highway superintendent Gregg Alberini in May.
Gerberry, whose uncle is former state Rep. Ronald Gerberry, said he looks forward to working with commissioners and other staff members.
Papalas said Gerberry in his eight years as trustee has gained the reputation of being a "people person," working well with neighboring township trustees
"Collaboration is key to efficient and effective government whether you are talking about sharing services or equipment," Gerberry said.
Smith said the Gerberry hiring is a positive for taxpayers. Gerberry's first job will be to provide assistance to townships collaborating in the area of blight abatement.
"We are fortunate to have a quality individual become part of a cohesive team, and we look forward to utilizing his skills," Smith said.
Weathersfield Administrator David Rouan said Gerberry helped manage a $4.5 million annual budget during a time of revenue losses, especially from the state's local government fund. In 2013, Weathersfield had to implement a 20 percent budget cut.
"He (Gerberry) helped establish new revenue sources to help offset the losses without raising taxes," Rouan said. "He was also instrumental in developing creative approaches to help manage the escalating cost of health care.
Gerberry, a lifetime Weathersfield resident, said he has resigned from his job as funeral director and embalmer with Staton-Borowski Funeral Home in Warren.