Brooklyn Heights committee debates full-time Service Department mechanic; refers pay back to Streets Committee

The Wage & Salary Committee of the Village of Brooklyn Heights debated whether to create a full-time mechanic position in the Service Department and whether to offer the role to current intern Nate Mandich during its May 5 meeting, but made no pay recommendation and sent the item to the Streets Committee for further consideration.

Councilman Hudson told colleagues he was concerned the Village’s maintenance needs might not justify the long-term cost of a full-time mechanic, saying the internship program has been successful and suggesting the Village “continue the internship program to assist with routine maintenance while outsourcing larger repairs as needed.”

Councilman Berzins countered that an in-house mechanic would provide value beyond vehicle repairs, maintaining Police, Fire, Community Service and administrative vehicles and Service Department equipment, and freeing staff to work on other Village projects. Councilman Lasky praised Nate Mandich’s mechanical skills and urged keeping more maintenance and repair work in-house rather than outsourcing it.

Mayor Michael Procuk emphasized the importance of qualified personnel, cautioning against describing experience as “tinkering.” He said some past repairs by underqualified individuals produced temporary fixes the Village continues to correct, and he urged hiring people who can ensure repairs are “done correctly the first time.” Mayor Procuk also noted the Service Department has expanded its in-house capabilities under Service Director Blados and said developing employees who show initiative and ability has benefited the Village.

Committee members discussed the proposed wage for the mechanic position; Hudson reiterated cost concerns while other members said the proposed wage appeared below market for skilled mechanics. The transcript does not specify the wage amount. Because the committee had no pay recommendation at the meeting, Mayor Procuk said the matter should be referred back to the Streets Committee; he added that another committee meeting could be scheduled if members want further discussion.

There was no vote or formal motion on creating the position at the May 5 meeting. Chair Jennifer Presot adjourned the committee after the discussion.