CLEARFIELD – On Tuesday the Clearfield County Commissioners bid their farewell to long-time solicitor Kim C. Kesner.
He’s tendered his resignation, effective June 1, because of his retirement from the practice of law after 40 years.
Kesner made his official announcement during his solicitor’s report at a commissioners’ meeting April 23.
On Tuesday he was recognized for his “high standards of service” throughout his career in law by Andrea Schickling, representative from the office of Sen. Wayne Langerholc Jr.
Kesner has served as county solicitor for over 30 years, having first been appointed in January of 1988. He’s served eight boards of commissioners of differing parties.
“… I’ve had a great ride owing to the collegiality and civility of the boards of commissioners I’ve represented,” he said. “… I’ve never been faced with any cloak and dagger politics.
“… That’s unique and it’s something that I value. I’ve represented Republican boards and Democratic boards … I hope going forward this continues for Heather [Bozovich].”
Prior to his appointment as solicitor, he served as an assistant district attorney for then-District Attorney Thomas Morgan and assistant county solicitor to then-Solicitor David Ammerman.
Recognized for his practice of municipal law, Kesner has served as solicitor to 22 Clearfield County townships and boroughs, as well as numerous municipal authorities.
He was counsel in the creation of the BCI, Huston Township, Kratzer Run and Muddy Run municipal authorities and the ORD Sewer Authority.
He also provided municipal financing for his municipal clients, totaling more than $56 million for sewer, water and other projects.
The commissioners officially approved the appointment of Heather Bozovich as solicitor, effective June 1, along with an agreement with Kesner to act as assistant county solicitor through Dec. 31.
To make the transition smooth for the county and for Bozovich, Kesner said he’s offered to be available as counsel to her for up to one year.
Also, on Tuesday the commissioners bid farewell to Susan Reed as manager of the county’s Conservation District, and gave her an appreciation award for her 19 years of service.
Reed was joined at the meeting by a number of individuals from the district’s office, including its new manager William Null, and from its board of directors.
“Susan was with us for so many years,” said board member Joe Kendrick. “… We could say a million good things about Susan, her job and how she’s done it.
“The truth is she came in here and has brought more money into our county to support our resources and conservation. It’s one of the tops in the state, and it’s directly related to the leadership of Susan.
“She’s been an amazing steward to the environment and to our conservation … We can’t say enough; she’s going to be very missed. Fortunately, we have a great replacement.”
Reed was also an original member of the Curwensville Lake Authority (CLA) and has served on Clearfield Borough Council.
