JEFFERSON — Members of Ashtabula County’s Board of Elections didn’t have to look far for their new director.
The board on Wednesday promoted Duane Feher, deputy director since July 2006, to the job held by Richard Hornstein the past 20 years. Longtime board member Carol Lovas is the new deputy director.
“I’ll work closely with the deputy director, staff and board members to make the transition as seamless and flexible as possible,” Feher said.
The action occurred at the board’s reorganization meeting Wednesday. Also at the session, members appointed Charlie Frye their chairman.
Hornstein’s retirement marks the end of a 28-year career with the elections office, the first eight years as a board member. On Wednesday, Hornstein watched the action from his former desk, which had been cleared of all personal effects except a congratulatory bouquet of flowers.
Hornstein confirmed weeks ago he planned to retire. Before joining an after-meeting reception in his honor, Hornstein said he would devote his newfound leisure time to his horse farm and also is mulling some job offers, he said.
Feher, a former county commissioner, joined the election board in 2005 and was appointed deputy director one year later. Lovas has served on the board for eight years, she said.
“It will be a challenge, but I like challenges,” Lovas said.
Hornstein was praised for his dedication to duty.
“I want to compliment Dick for continuing the rich tradition of keeping politics out (of the elections board),” Feher said. “I’m very fortunate to have had a good working relationship with Dick.”
Lovas agreed.
“Hornstein ran wonderful elections, and I intend to keep the office a nonpolitical office,” she said.
“We’ll miss you,” member Luanne Laasko told Hornstein. “Your retirement is much deserved.”
Myra Brown, an Andover council member, will take Lovas’ place on the board. Her appointment will be made official at an upcoming meeting. Brown will be the third newcomer on the four-member board. Frye and John Mead participated in their first meeting last week.
Local News
Feher, Lovas will run county elections office
Richard Hornstein steps down after long term
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