Mayor Tony George Appoints Rick Gazenski as City Administrator
Mayor Tony George has appointed Rick Gazenski as City Administrator. The appointment was made following Administrator Ted Wampole’s announcement to leave his position with the city for a new role at the Luzerne County Visitor’s Bureau. Mr. Gazenski will train with Administrator Wampole from November 26th (Gazenski’s date of hire) until Mr. Wampole’s official last day on December 7th.
The Mayor chose Mr. Gazenski as administrator based upon his successful business background, from which he has honed his negotiation, employee management, business growth, and fiscal responsibility skills.
Mr. Gazenski has over 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, from which he retired in 2015. He still maintains his insurance license as a producer and a consultant. He and his business partner built a 100-year-old business into a successful multi-million-dollar insurance firm. Mr. Gazenski served as vice President of J.W. Hoban & Associates from 1994 to 2015. “While many businesses chose to leave the city, we stayed. This decision demonstrated that success that can be achieved through dedication and commitment to our neighbors and our city.”
Mr. Gazenski’s civic-mindedness is showcased in his past and current affiliations:
- Previous State Certified Instructor for Insurance Licensing & Continuing Education
- Past President of NEEA Erie Insurance Association
- Past President of South Wilkes-Barre Rotary
- Past Member of the Wilkes-Barre Redistricting Committee
- Member of Mayor George’s 2016 Transition Team
- Current Chairman of the 6th District Democratic Committee
- Organizer and member of the District A Fund, a volunteer community organization created to improve existing municipal and community facilities and improve the safety and security of residents
Mr. Gazenski has served the George Administration, on a voluntary basis, as a member of the City of Wilkes-Barre’s insurance committee, which was organized to review insurance proposals for proper coverages. Mr. Gazenski has also served as a board member of the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority and as the Vice Chairman of the Wilkes-Barre Planning Commission. He will vacate both boards in his new role as City Administrator.