Public works director set to retire
CENTER TWP — The township’s public works director announced his retirement Monday night after being placed on a probationary status by the township supervisors.
Mark Lauer gave the supervisors two-weeks notice at the conclusion of the township’s monthly meeting. Earlier in the night, the supervisors placed Lauer on a probationary status — freezing his annual wage — for unspecified reasons.
The supervisors opened the meeting with a 30-minute executive session citing personnel reasons. During the reorganization section of the meeting, the board opted to freeze Lauer’s annual salary, eliminating an about $520 per year raise Lauer was set to receive this year.
Later in the meeting, Lauer announced his retirement.
“I want to thank past boards for their commitment to me, and thank certain members of the current board for their support,” Lauer said in a prepared speech.
The township did not say why Lauer was placed on a probationary status.
“I don’t think that’s important now as he has resigned from the position,” supervisor Ken Frenchak said after the meeting.
Lauer said his resignation was based on more reasons than the probationary status, but did say he was unhappy about that decision.
“I discussed everything with my family, and I think this is what’s best for me,” he said.
Lauer did not comment on the probationary status, but said he was told recently that it was pending.
“It’s sad that it has come to this,” he said.
Lauer was set to make about $51,000 as the public works director this year.
Lauer said he enjoyed his time working for the township, saying his interaction with the residents was the most memorable part.
“I liked working with residents to solve problems,” he said after the meeting. “That’s the part I’ll remember.”
The supervisors said the process to replace Lauer could take up to three months. Chairman Ed Latuska said they will have a better idea of who will temporarily fill the position following Lauer’s last day, which is Jan. 16.
Lauer said after the meeting he plans to travel to Florida after he is finished working for the township.
After that, he said he is still open to the idea of finding another job as a public works director.
“If anyone is looking for a good, used public works director, they can give me a call,” he said.
