Staff shake-up at Mill Creek MetroParks continues

YOUNGSTOWN — Mill Creek MetroParks’ staff shake-up continued this week with four additional dismissals.

The park system eliminated the positions of plant curator Ellen Speicher, ranger Vince Thomas, development assistant Lanore Jones and gardener Beth Molvin, said Mill Creek MetroParks Executive Director Aaron Young.

All those positions were part-time.

Those dismissals follow eight that were conducted last week.

In addition to dismissals, two park staffers — volunteer coordinator Bridget Beck and part-time exhibits coordinator Norma Roden ­— reportedly resigned this week.

Mill Creek MetroParks officials say position eliminations are part of an “internal reorganization” plan that will save the park system $13 million over 15 years to make up for a projected $15 million capital improvement shortfall.