Andy Close
WARREN, Pa. – A new agreement was approved during Wednesday’s meeting of the Warren County Commissioners, and it involves retaining a valued member of their team.
Jonie Smitley was hired by the commissioners at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic as an infectious disease consultant. Under the new agreement, she will be retained through 2022 and will serve a multitude of roles.
“Most of the department heads have had a chance to work with Jonie,” said Public Safety Director Ken McCorrison. “She’s been a real asset.”
The initial agreement with Smitley was approved during the county’s emergency declaration during the pandemic. With that declaration having been lifted, a new agreement was needed.
“I think Jonie is uniquely placed and has the skill set to work in public safety,” Commissioner Ben Kafferlin said.
McCorrison also outlined some of the reasons Smitley’s expertise is needed.
“COVID exposed some weaknesses in our EMS system,” he said. “Jonie will help with coordination of training and certification of training for the county’s EMS responders,” McCorrison said.
Rescue Plan funds will be used to cover the new agreement. Smitley will work approximately 10-20 hours per week, per Kafferlin.
