Jefferson County Board honors retirees and welcomes new supervisor Phil Rizzo

Jefferson County Board members gathered on April 15, 2025, to address key issues impacting the community, including the appointment of a new supervisor and recognition of retiring officials.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming 25 members present. Following the approval of the agenda, the board moved swiftly to address several important items. A public hearing for planning and zoning was scheduled for April 17, 2025, at 7 p.m., signaling ongoing efforts to engage the community in local governance.

A highlight of the meeting was the recognition of four retiring county employees, including Bill Kern, Denise Nyberg, Greg Keppel, and Sergeant Rob Schenkeng. Each retiree was honored for their years of dedicated service, with heartfelt tributes from colleagues emphasizing their contributions to the county. Kern, who served as the highway commissioner for over 19 years, and Nyberg, a communications operator with nearly 27 years of service, were particularly noted for their commitment to public service. Schenkeng, who dedicated 28.5 years to the sheriff's office, was recognized for his reliability and willingness to support his team during challenging times.

In a significant move, the board appointed Phil Rizzo to fill the vacancy in Supervisor District 17, following the departure of Russell Coutts. Rizzo, a former corporate counsel, was welcomed back to the board and sworn in during the meeting, reinforcing the continuity of leadership within the county.

The board also passed a resolution honoring Russell Coutts for his decade-long service, acknowledging his contributions across various committees and his commitment to representing the interests of Jefferson County residents. The resolution highlighted Coutts' thoughtful approach and dedication, which will be missed by his colleagues.

As the meeting concluded, the board's actions underscored a commitment to community engagement, recognition of public service, and the importance of stable leadership in Jefferson County. The upcoming public hearing and the appointment of Rizzo are expected to further enhance the county's governance and responsiveness to community needs.