Northampton County has plenty of problems, to be sure. Our sheriff is not one of them. Northampton County is the only County in Pennsylvania that appoints, instead of electing, its Sheriffs. That seems like a good policy. After all, we don't elect our police chiefs. But we will be making another appointment soon. Jeff Hawbecker, Northampton County's sheriff, has decided to call it a day. He's resigning, effective October 30. Chief Deputy Thomas Marchetti, who worked with Jeff in the Pennsylvania State Police, will be leaving with him. Amiable and quietly effective, I once saw him in the parking lot farthest from the courthouse, parking his car at the very end, ensuring a lengthy uphill walk to the government center. He could insist on a spot right by the nearest entrance, and would be justified. But as he walked uphill, umbrella in hand, he told me he's trying to set an example for his deputies, who have often parked wherever the hell they feel like parking.
Another high-ranking county official sets and example, too. His name is John Stoffa. I often see him trudging up the steep hill outside the courthouse, briefcase in hand.
Me? I follow the example set by deputies. If unable to squeeze into a handicapped spot, I'll park in one of the judges' reserved spots.
Over the years, Hawbecker has professionalized and diversified his department, and is working on a certification. He'll be a tough act to follow.
I've heard several names, including Bill Hillanbrand, as a possible replacement.
10 comments:
Why?
When Stoffa wanted to boot him out in his all things Reibman Republican directed purge, fortunately the Courts stepped in and laid the law down on Stoffa.
Stoffa backed off and Jeff stayed on to do a great job.
God, please, anyone but that bootlicker Hildrenbradt. Talk about politicizing a Department.
The sherrifs in Norco are a bunch of corrupt troglodytes. I don't wish that position on my worst enemy.
I'd like to see the judges set the same example. Clearly, several could use the walk.
Hows about Bob Mateff?
How about Mark Mazziaoti?
It will take a highly qualitfied and strong-willed person to rule that bunch. Bill H. is a nice guy but would be eaten alive by deputy sheriff malcontents. Bob M. is doing a terrific job a 911 and has enough sense to stay as far away from the Sheriff's office as humanly possible. There is an opportunity here to "start fresh" and reverse the gravy train of deputy sheriff arbitrations. These officers of the ocurt should understand that they serve the people. People = taxpayers. Unfortunately their true bosses- the judges do not always reflect that humble perspective.
Mark Mazziotti would be an excellent choice. He served quite well as the county's chief adult probation officer. PJ McFadden forced him out in a decision that has never been fully explained. In my view, this is her only administrative error.
Not Hillanbrand, he jumped from the Court office position for job security. You need a real leader in the Sheriffs Department.
That will be a tough find from this Administration, leadership isn't one of their strong suits.
Keep your government hands off my Sherrif's Dept!!!!!!
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