Mike English thought he would retire someday from his position as county solicitor, which he accepted in 2013 when it was offered by former county Commissioners Dale Pinkerton and Bill McCarrier.

When the three current commissioners were elected in 2015, English assisted with the wholesale governmental transition before becoming a vital part of the team.

But now English has accepted the position of vice president of trust services with Passavant Memorial Homes Family of Services, a nonprofit organization that helps individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism and behavioral health needs live successfully in the community.

“A month ago at this time, I'd have called (it) crazy,” English said of his unexpected decision to leave the county.

English said the offer extended by Passavant Memorial Homes, which is headquartered in Warrendale, is a great opportunity for him and his family.

“And I'm impressed with their mission and dedication to the folks they serve,” he said.

English will leave for his new job at the end of November, which will not be easy.

“It's a very bittersweet moment,” he said. “Working with this board (of commissioners) and their very forward-thinking attitude has been very rewarding for me.”

Negotiating union contracts, aiding the transition from the former commissioners to a new board and the sale of the Sunnyview facility are some achievements English points to during his tenure as county solicitor.

Before joining the county as solicitor English worked at the law firm Dillon McCandless King Coulter and Graham in Butler. He earned his undergraduate degree from Youngstown State University and his law degree from Ohio Northern University.

Leslie Osche, commissioners chairman, said she hates to see English leave but understands his decision.

“He's been a tremendous asset to the county and it certainly is a loss for us, but we understand it was an opportunity and we are certainly happy that he has been able to take advantage of it for him and his family,” Osche said. “If I didn't say there were tears, I'd be lying.”

She called English “more than a solicitor,” saying he always jumped in and worked outside of his capacity to keep the county moving forward.

“I think he's been part of a team effort and never said 'That's not part of my job description,'” Osche said.

She also pointed to English's proclivity for cracking acerbic one-liners at any given opportunity.

“His sense of humor will definitely be missed,” Osche said.

Commissioners are now examining their options regarding the hiring of a new solicitor.

Osche said they will at least have a temporary solicitor in place by the time English departs.