MOUNT VERNON — The offices of the Knox County Engineer and the Knox County Highway Department are closed for the remainder of the week following the untimely death of staff employee Damian Simon on Monday.
“It’s a three-day closure. We are open only four days a week, Monday through Thursday,” said Jim Henry, Knox County Engineer, as his staff runs on four 10-hour shifts each week and is now on three days of paid leave. “It’s been tough on the guys, and it was my determination.”
Henry has arranged for staff to be on call during the closure. Representatives from the Ohio Department of Transportation and the county garage manager have volunteered to have crews available if a need arises during this time period. “What I’m hoping is that nothing occurs, but I think we can handle the situation,” said Henry.
Knox County Safety and Loss Coordinator Emily Marth stated that counseling services have been made available through the Mount Vernon Fire Department for those employees who feel they have the need.
“We’re still waiting to hear back from an accident report,” said Henry in regard to having a better understanding of the details of the accident. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families.”
