Vernon names interim business administrator

VERNON — The township council recently named William Zuckerman as Vernon’s interim business administrator until a search can be found for a permanent replacement.

The township’s former business administrator, Jerry Giaimis recently resigned to accept a position in Scotch Plains. Also, Mayor Vic Marotta read a letter to the council from Zuckerman announcing his intention to resign from the position of township chief financial officer Aug. 1.

Marotta nominated Zuckerman, who he said will turn 75 in January, to fill in as business administrator and serve the duties of the treasuer, which he said were not extensive.

“Bill has the experience,” Marotta said. “He’s been involved in the things that Mr. Giaimis was doing and it will give us the opportunity to carry on in a seamless manner.”

Marotta also said the appointment of Zuckerman will result in a savings to the town as he will be paid on an hourly basis, instead of his CFO salary.

The township business administrator is a position appointed by the mayor with the consent of the council. The business administrator serves as head of the township’s Department of Administration, sets rules of procedure for all departments and helps prepare the annual municipal budget.

Marotta said the appointment would make Zuckerman part of the 2014 municipal budget process.

“It’s a prudent use of talent,” Township Council president Patrick Rizzuto said.

Township treasurer Elke Yetter recently passed the CFO certification exam with a 98. Marotta said he plans to nominate her to the position at the Township Council’s next meeting.

“I am comfortable with Elke and enthusiastic about her,” Marotta said.