Eldred Township praised Supervisor Gary Hoffman at the supervisors meeting this month. His term ends Dec. 31.

Hoffman first became a supervisor on May 20, 2016, to replace a supervisor that resigned. He ran in the next election and has been a supervisor ever since, but did not run for reelection this year.

Former supervisor Blaine Silfies said, “Mr. Hoffman, serving with you on that board has been a pleasure. Thank you very much for your serving this township.”

Robert Boileau, the chairman of the Planning Commission, read a statement on behalf of himself and the Planning Commission, which included, “We wish to express our sincere appreciation for your service. Under your leadership, Eldred Township supervisors successfully transformed the road crew into a true Public Works Department, one that operates with greater efficiency, expanded capability and most importantly renewed pride. Your willingness to chip in never went unnoticed.”

Boileau added that the planning commission has an opening if Hoffman is interested.

From the Kunkletown Volunteer Fire Company, Brian Stankovich, the financial secretary of the fire department, thanked Hoffman for all of his support.

“We wouldn’t be where we’re at today without your support. … We appreciate it,” he said.

Jonathan Gula, the supervisor of the Public Works Department, thanked Hoffman for all the help he gave him and his department and welcomes any other insights in the future.

On behalf of the staff, Ann Velopolcek, the township secretary, thanked Hoffman for his service. She commented on how he helped the township navigate when Nestle Waters wanted to tap into the township’s water supply, and how he helped rebuild the township’s fleet of aging construction vehicles.

“Eldred Township now has a complete inventory of modern equipment and a well-funded vehicle replacement plan that will relieve future boards of the difficulty of having to find financing for expensive equipment. … Eldred Township is in a better place than when you came. We will miss you and we thank you most profoundly for all the good that you have done.” Velopolcek said.

Supervisor Susan McGinty said she admires how Hoffman would respectfully answer her questions when she was a member of the public. From her statement, she read, “Your professional integrity and commitment to Eldred Township show in everything you do.”

Scott Clark, the chairman of the supervisors, said he was speaking on behalf of the residents and businesses when he said, “I, too, extend our deepest appreciation and sincere gratitude for your 14 years of dedicated service to the community of Eldred. … The depth of experience, knowledge and professionalism you have gave throughout your career has greatly benefitted Eldred Township and will continue to do so in the future.”

Clark also thanked him for his guidance, counsel, leadership, advice, and willingness to mentor him “has been invaluable.” He then presented Hoffman with a plaque honoring his service and a shirt with the township’s logo.

Hoffman asked to speak as well. He said it took him a little while to get used to the slow pace of government but realized that it has to move slowly because “the money that elected officials spend isn’t theirs; it’s the people’s money so we must be good stewards of that money. Elected officials and any government must demonstrate the highest levels of integrity and always do checks and balances that must be in place to protect the people’s money.”

Hoffman, who works as the director of communications at the Monroe County Control Center, said he believes public safety must be a priority and there should never be a compromise that puts the safety of the people at risk.

Hoffman said he read a quote once that said, “The basis of effective government is public confidence.” He went on to say that “Eldred Township residents should have full confidence in the leadership beginning Jan. 1.”

Hoffman encouraged the residents to continue to show interest in their municipality and come out to the meetings.

“We really appreciate it when residents take time out of their personal lives to attend our meetings and ask questions,” he said.