Blair County commissioners have recently made a significant decision by hiring Sherry Socie as the new chief clerk/county administrator. Socie, who currently works as a strategic planner and grant writer for the Blair County Planning Commission, will be stepping into this top administrative role starting on September 3rd with an annual salary of $74,000. This move comes after the commissioners fired the previous chief clerk/county administrator, Nicole Hemminger, in early July.
Despite Socie not having direct experience as a chief clerk or county administrator, her extensive work history spanning 24 years showcases a diverse skill set in business administration, accounting, budgeting, fiscal management, sales, bid solicitation, and grant writing. Additionally, she holds an associate degree in business administration from Penn State Altoona and has completed state and federal emergency management and local mitigation training. Commissioner Dave Kessling expressed confidence in Socie’s abilities, citing her background and familiarity with the county’s municipalities as key factors in her selection for the role.
Commissioner Amy Webster also voiced support for Socie’s appointment, emphasizing her grant-writing experience as a valuable asset for the county. Socie’s track record of collaborating with various county offices and municipalities through her work at the planning commission further strengthens her suitability for the position. She expressed enthusiasm for the new role and looks forward to forging connections with county offices and employees to drive projects forward.
The decision to hire Socie follows the commissioners‘ earlier decision to terminate Hemminger, who had served in the role for 7.5 years. Kessling and Webster justified the move as part of a broader effort to instill a new culture in county government and take a more hands-on approach to decision-making. While Burke dissented, citing Hemminger’s experience and knowledge as crucial safeguards for the county and its taxpayers, the majority decision stood.
In light of these changes, the commissioners are also considering restructuring office personnel, revising job duties and descriptions, and implementing cross-training initiatives. In the interim, Finance Director Lindsay Dempsie will continue to serve as the acting chief clerk, with Webster assuming the responsibilities of the county’s Right-to-Know officer. The commissioners have yet to advertise the assistant chief clerk position left vacant by Alison Senkevich’s resignation.
Overall, Socie’s appointment marks a new chapter for Blair County as it navigates organizational shifts and strives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in its administrative operations. With her diverse skill set and collaborative approach, Socie is poised to make a positive impact in her new role and contribute to the county’s continued growth and development.