Nazareth highway superintendent steps down, cites personal reasons

FROM THE EXPRESS TIMES

Nazareth Superintendent of Highways Keith Knecht has resigned from the position after six years of service, citing personal reasons.

The announcement was made Monday evening during a special meeting of the Nazareth Borough Council. Notice of the special meeting had been made in the form of a legal notice in local newspapers, however it was not on the borough's website. Council President Dan Chiavaroli said only a handful of residents were present during the meeting.

Knecht plans to stay on as superintendent of highways until the borough fills the position, Chiavaroli said today.

"He's going to stay on, he's not going to leave us," Chiavaroli said. "He's an excellent superintendent, an excellent employee. It's really a shame that he's decided to step down. He's doing an excellent job. But it's his decision."

Chiavaroli said borough officials will work to fill the position by accepting applications through March 18. Interested candidates should drop off applications in person to Borough Hall, 134 S. Main St. Applications are available on the borough's website.

Chiavaroli said he, along with Borough Secretary/Treasurer Paul Kokolus, Councilman Michael Kopach and Councilman Frank Maurek, will be interviewing candidates for the position.

Chiavaroli said the duties of the superintendent of highways include overseeing the maintenance of borough streets, parks, public buildings, grounds, the pool and other borough properties, as well as vehicle and equipment maintenance.

Requirements of the position include the development of paving, road maintenance and equipment replacement programs; storm sewer projects; coordination of seasonal activities such as leaf collection and snow plowing; and departmental budget preparation. This person will supervise seven staff members and three seasonal employees, Chiavaroli said.

According to the job description, the candidate also must have some skills in spreadsheets, word processing, e-mail and the Internet, along with problem-solving skills and the ability to work with surrounding units of government. This position requires that the superintendent be on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week with the exception of vacations.

Applicants also should have the ability to prepare and administer a budget. A minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in public works administration and/or supervision is preferred. Salary will be competitive and based upon qualifications and experience. The successful candidate will receive a complete benefits package, the description states.

Knecht could not immediately be reached for comment.

http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/nazareth/index.ssf/2011/02/nazareth_highway_superintenden.html