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Landis open to single head for WWTP, DPW

Fredonia Mayor Athanasia Landis

The village of Fredonia’s top official says she is open to curbing personnel costs now that a unique opportunity has arisen.

Two department head positions remain vacant after the retirements of Department of Public Works Superintendent/Streets Commissioner John “Jack” Boland and Wastewater Treatment Plant Chief Operator Betsy Sly late last year. As a result, Mayor Athanasia Landis is considering combining the two jobs into one.

“I would be very open to the possibility of where we have one public works department, which is going to include the wastewater treatment plant, the DPW and even the water department under one person — if we can find somebody who has the necessary license,” she said in a recent phone interview with the OBSERVER. “I’m open to many possibilities; we are open to many possibilities. It’s not an easy position to fill, but we’re doing whatever we can.”

She noted shared services with another municipality are also a possibility for the jobs — if the cost savings are explicitly shown to her.

“It has to be practical, as well,” she added.

Another important position to fill is that of the village attorney. Samuel Drayo Jr. retired recently, as well.

Landis stated finding a new attorney is a high priority for her. She pointed out it becomes expensive to keep positions open over a long period of time, as overtime accrues and tasks have to be outsourced.

“Hopefully with the holidays behind us, we’re going to be able to get some applicants and interview them and find the right people,” Landis concluded. “I’m very confident that we will; it’s a matter of time.”

Email: gfox@observertoday.com. Twitter: @gfoxnews

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