MOUNT VERNON — The Knox County Commissioners announced the retirement of Ron Simpson as superintendent of the Mount Vernon Water and Wastewater Department when they met Monday morning at the commissioners’ office.
Simpson has worked for the county water department for more than 30 years, serving as superintendent for three years and foreman nine years after previously working as equipment operator.
With his retirement effective Aug. 1, Simpson said he is not sure of his future plans. The commissioners commended Simpson for his many years of dedicated work for the city. Teresa Bemiller said the job opening has been advertised.
The commissioners opened two bids Monday for a paving project on Myers Road, just east of Ohio 657 near Lock. Bids were received from Mid-Ohio Paving Inc. at $333,331.63 and from Small’s Asphalt Paving Inc. at $319,513.00. Also present for the opening of bids was Knox County Engineer Jim Henry who will give a recommendation to the commissioners in the next few days on awarding the project.
Also on tap for Monday’s agenda was a meeting with Diana Williams, coordinator of Opportunity Knox Employment Center, and Matthew Kurtz, director of Knox County Job and Family Services. Williams explained that a member is being sought to serve on the Workforce Investment Act board. This entity was formed to help low-income individuals, providing resources and assistance for employment opportunities. Williams gave a recommendation that Dotti L. Riggs be considered for the position and presented Riggs’ resume to the commissioners.
Williams and Kurtz also discussed what’s been happening lately at Opportunity Knox.
“We’re seeing more than ever before many people trying to do two jobs,” said Williams, in referring to the local employment situation. “Although it looks like this may be the norm for a while, things are improving,” she said.
