Joe Heatherly is leaving his position as the Finance Director, a position he has had with Gila County for three years, after accepting a private sector job in western Arizona. Berthan DeNero has taken a position with Pinal County after serving as the Human Resources Director for five and one half years. IT Director, Darryl Griffin is going into private business after leaving his position of five and one half years.

Gila County Manager Don McDaniel addressed their departures at the Board of Supervisor’s meeting on March 19th, by saying, “Thankfully, all of these Departments have highly qualified, excellent staff that are capable and knowledgeable, so the day to day operations will continue to function effectively in each of these affected areas. I am confident that the staff will step up and carry these Departments forward during this time of change. We will be able to continue to operate in good order without missing a beat.”

One of the positions has been filled. Linda Eastlick will take over as the Human Resources Director. According to McDaniel, she was selected because,  “Linda has vast experience in HR, and has been a valuable member of the Management Team in her role as Elections Director.”

An agency that handles placing knowledgeable interim staff to help with the duties of the other two departments has been contacted.

Malissa Buzan was promoted to Director of the Community Services Division after serving as the ‘Acting Director’ for the last four months. “Malissa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this position as well as a real passion for the clients that this Division serves,” stated Mr. McDaniel. “She was successful in the interview process, and was unanimously recommended by the Selection Committee.”