Luzerne County Manager Romilda Crocamo wants county council to approve James Rose from West Pittston as the new head of administrative services division, who will receive $98,000 per year, as per Tuesday’s council agenda.
This leader oversees the election bureau and seven other departments — human resources, purchasing/acquisition, information technology, GIS/mapping, licensing/permits, community development and tourism.
The position is vacant because council recently confirmed former head Jennifer Pecora as the new head of operational services division in February.
Crocamo said in a statement, “I am happy to nominate the newest member of our leadership team. With a lot of experience in both state and local government, Mr. Rose brings a unique combination of expertise and leadership to advance our Administrative Services department.”
According to previous reports and other available information:
Rose holds a bachelor’s degree in counseling from the University of Scranton.
From 2013 until earlier this year, he worked as a local government policy specialist for the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Center for Local Government Services.
This center is a “one-stop shop for local government officials and provides a lot of knowledge and expertise on all matters affecting local government operations throughout Pennsylvania,” according to the state site.
His previous work included positions as a resource designer and teleform business analyst for Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Rose also served on West Pittston Borough Council from June 2006 through September 2015.
Crocamo mentioned that Rose has “an impressive track record of accomplishments” and worked successfully on many projects with county personnel through his previous employment.
She added, “His extensive experience and understanding of government operations make him an invaluable asset to our team. His exceptional leadership skills and proven ability to collaborate with diverse teams will undoubtedly contribute to the further growth and success of our Administrative Services department.”
She also mentioned that Rose has “continuously shown his dedication to teamwork and collaborative problem-solving” throughout his career. His personality and temperament also “make him a natural fit for our organization, where we prioritize a positive and inclusive work culture,” according to her statement.
Crocamo said, “We strongly encourage the Council to recognize Mr. Rose’s qualifications and confirm his nomination, as he is undoubtedly the right candidate to lead our Administrative Services department to new heights.”
Council confirmation is necessary for the eight division head appointments under the county’s home rule charter.
The pay is not expected to be an issue with council because it is below the $98,800 stated in the position list linked to the county’s 2024 budget.
Some council members had rejected Crocamo’s initial request to confirm Pecora at $110,000 because the operational services division head had been stated at $98,800 in the position list. Crocamo had argued funds were available to cover the additional compensation without exceeding the overall budget and that Pecora would yield savings to justify the pay increase. Pecora ultimately accepted the position at $98,800.
Michele Sparich, the county grants writer, had temporarily been leading the administrative services division.
The council's Tuesday voting meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the county courthouse on River Street in Wilkes-Barre. Information for attending remotely is available on the council's website under the public meetings section. luzernecounty.org.
