Longtime Bell Acres Public Works Employee Plans Retirement

 has accepted the retirement of a longtime , with regret.

Ray Zassick delivered a letter to the borough indicating his plans to retire on Nov. 1.

“Ray has been with us forever,” said Councilman Philip Ewanko, who on Monday night made the motion as public works committee chairman to accept Zassick's retirement.

“It's with great regret,” Ewanko said. 

Council President Dennis Young said Zassick is a friend who has worked at least 30 years on the public works department and previously served with the .

Council approved the hiring of as a full-time public works employee starting on Nov. 1. Withrow’s starting pay rate will remain at $20.99 per hour and he will be entitled to all public works contracted benefits.

His 90-day probationary period is also being waived because he has been working with the borough part-time. He will be required to take a physical, Ewanko said.

The board also passed a resolution to sell the old public works flatbed trailer to Zassick for $200, with Councilman Robert Powner and Young abstaining from the vote. Council attempted to sell the trailer last year and there were no interested buyers.

In other business:

• Announced that four members of the fire department are now Level I certified by the National Pro Board, the national board on fire service protection qualifications. He said an additional four more members have passed the practical exam and will retake the written exams. The fire department is voluntarily participating in the certification.

• Announced the 2012 road project is complete. 

• Announced the Community Day Picnic is from 1 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25 at the and . The event includes food, awards and door prizes.