County Board: E-Cigs Profit, Employee Of The Quarter And WMSRDC

County Administrator Chris Wren and Connie Mooney of the Parks Department who was named Newaygo County Employee of the Quarter.

By Ken DeLaat
Connie Mooney of the Parks Department was named Employee of the Quarter during a presentation at the regular meeting of the Newaygo County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday November 22.

“You have demonstrated excellence in leadership at your job by stepping up and successfully assisting the Parks Director with difficult customers and employee issues,” read County Administrator Chris Wren. “Through your actions, it is clear you care about the park’s customers and employees and in turn you are highly respected by them.  Your willingness to educate, motivate and provide assistance to the general public and staff is extremely valuable.”
“You exemplify the attitude and work ethic that makes our Parks department successful. You are undeniably a great asset to Newaygo County and to all that have the privilege of working with you.”

Commissioners also heard a report from Erin Kuhn Executive Director  for West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission the federal and state designated regional planning and development agency serving 120 local governments in Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties.
Ms. Kuhn spoke to several initiatives currently underway in the region including  the support for the progress being made on The Dragon, the non motorized pathway around Hardy Pond that continues to move forward thanks to the creatively  collaborative effort involving several entities including Newaygo and Mecosta Counties and Consumers Energy.  She cited a report indicating The Dragon would have significant economic impact on the region.
Ms. Kuhn also mentioned working with Administrator Wren and Drain Commissioner Dale Twing on a strategic plan for the county’s recycling program.

In other business Administrator Wren reported that the e-cigarette program that was passed by the board and instituted at the jail this past June has thus far turned a $33,174 profit to the county during the past 4 ½ months.