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New judge replaced by experienced attorney on Warren Civil Service Commission
By Ed Runyan
WARREN
As James Fredericka was being honored Wednesday during the Warren Civil Service Commission meeting for his 20 years of service to the commission, Atty. Dan Letson attended as an observer, in preparation for taking Fredericka’s place as chairman later this month.
“We’re going to have a very smooth transition,” said Fredericka, who takes office as Trumbull County Probate Court judge Monday and therefore had to resign his position on the civil service commission.
“Danny understands the process. He has represented people challenging test questions and has 30 years experience in public law,” Fredericka said.
The three-member Civil Service Commission administers promotional exams for Warren police and fire positions, decides on the methods that will be used to determine promotions and hears challenges as to the fairness of the testing procedures used.
Letson, a private-practice attorney, has served as legal representative for various school boards and spent 15 years as a board member for Trumbull County Children Services until the end of 2012.
Fredericka and his law firm have counseled various governmental agencies and school boards regarding contractual, labor issues and lawsuits for decades, so he brought a lot of knowledge to his position on the commission, which pays each member $100 per month.
Fredericka noted that during his 20 years on the commission, only one lawsuit has been brought against the commission, and none has been successful, which is a departure from the time period before he was appointed.
Fredericka said he has found it rewarding to be around the unions and employees of the city.
“We have an extremely professional group of policemen and firemen,” he added.
At Wednesday’s meeting, the commission certified a new promotional list for assistant fire chief and lieutenant.
As a result, three firefighters were sworn in Thursday. Two firefighters were promoted to lieutenant — Jarrod Perry and Brian Garman. Lt. Ed Hukary was sworn in as captain. The positions became vacant because of the retirements of Lt. Ted Ray in December and Capt. Tom Walker on Monday.
The commission also set 10 a.m. April 25 at Warren G. Harding High School for an examination for entry-level police officer. Starting wage is $14.82 per hour. Candidates must be between 18 and 35 years old to take the test and between 21 and 34 to be hired.