BUTLER TWP — Joe Cunningham, who’s been director at Butler County Vocational-Technical School for more than 23 years, retired from his position effective Thursday because of health reasons.

“I’m very proud of that school, I’m proud of the staff, I’m proud of the students,” he said on Friday. “I’m proud and pleased to have served there.

“I’m glad I had the opportunity to afford pathways to the future of the students that were involved.”

Joint Operating Committee members at a special meeting Thursday night approved his retirement and benefits package in an 8-4 vote. Jim Keffalas was among the dissenting votes, with concerns about what he thought was an excessive retirement package.

Josh Price, of Karns City, and Eric DiTullio and Jim Nickel, of Seneca Valley, also voted against the retirement.

The package reportedly is valued at about $20,000 annually.

That package included family health care coverage until June 30, and beginning July 1, individual health care coverage for up to six years.