PORT ANGELES — An open house is planned June 30 at Clallam Transit’s headquarters to mark the retirement of General Manger Kevin Gallacci, who is retiring after 39 years.
The public open house will be from noon to 3 p.m. at 830 W. Lauridsen Blvd.
Wednesday’s meeting was Gallacci’s last as general manager and he received many “thank yous” from the board and co-workers.
During the public comment period, Justin Leighton, the executive director of the Washington State Transit Association, appeared remotely to thank Gallacci for his service in public transportation.
“His community has been served by his calm attitude and his influence is beyond the borders of the county,” Leighton said.
Board Chair Juanita Weissenfels presented Gallacci with a plaque recognizing his many years of service to Clallam Transit.
“He has been excellent at pulling together managers who share the goals of public service and safety and the public’s generals welfare,” Weissenfels said. “Morale seems to be high among employees and that’s due to Kevin’s leadership.”
Human Resources Manager Andy Rowlson on Wednesday gave the board an update on hiring a replacement for Gallacci.
Commissioners Kathy Downer, Mike French and Lindsey Schromen-Wawrin served on a sub-committee that reviewed in-house candidates and recommended operations manager Jim Fetzer, who will be acting general manager starting July 1.
“We have an action plan to set a special meeting and have the board interview the candidate in the next two or three weeks,” Rowlson said.
Rowlson thanked Gallacci for his steady guidance and knowledge.
“I’m not worried about the ‘Ask Kevin’ button not being here, because if you ask Kevin, he will tell you,” Rowlson joked.
Gallacci said he felt confident about Clallam Transit’s financial standing, its management and its future.
“I feel like I’m leaving on a high note,” Gallacci said.
In other Clallam Transit news, Gallacci announced that Cheri Huxtable had been promoted from finance administrator to finance manager.
Paula Hunt can be reached at 360-425-2345, ext. 50583, or by email at paula.hunt@peninsuladailynews.com.
