Departing commissioners thankful for opportunity to serve Tuscarawas County
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Dec. 29, 2022) – Tuscarawas County’s outgoing commissioners have been saying their goodbyes as they get ready to move on to their next endeavors.
Al Landis is heading back to Columbus in the new year after running unopposed for state senate, while Kerry Metzger is retiring from public office to devote more time to his family and role as Empower Tusc’s chairman. Board President Chris Abbuhl thanked both for their service to the county and its residents.
“I want to wish you both the very best as you move forward in your continued public service and as you go into your retirement, Commissioner Metzger, but I know you’re not slowing down either. You’re just shifting gears into another position but you’ll still be able to have a positive impact on Tuscarawas County.”
It’s the second departure for Metzger who rejoined the board last spring when former commissioner Joe Sciarretti stepped down to take a job in the private sector. He says he enjoyed his time as a commissioner.
“I’m just, like I said, blessed. I appreciate, again, the citizens and I appreciate working with Commissioner Abbhul over all these years. We’ve had a blast together.”
Landis disagreed with Abbuhl’s comment about him moving on to “bigger and better things,” emphasizing the importance of the role he’s leaving and other local offices.
“The importance of local government should not be downplayed or put in a closet because the role of county commissioners… is part of a very complex system and a very important role in a very complex system.”
Landis is being replaced by Attorney Kristin Zemis, while business owner Greg Ress is taking over Metzger’s seat.