515 E. Main Street, Van Wert, Ohio  45891    -     Phone (419) 238-1237
Safety Service Director: Jay Fleming

The Safety Service Director is responsible for the operations of ten different departments. The Director oversees all city departments with the exception of the income tax office, which is responsible to the mayor.  The Director hires city employees and negotiates union contracts. Employee policy and procedures are also established from this office.  The Safety Service Director is responsible for policies and procedures that govern how the city does business and approves expenditures in conjunction with the auditor's office.  The Director administers contracts, and draws up specifications for purchases.   At times the Engineer's Office personnel assist in specification development.

Each fall, annual budget preparation becomes a priority.   Department Heads present their proposals.  Capital improvements and long-term planning goals are also taken into account when the Safety Service Director, Council Finance Committee, and City Auditor review the city's needs and compare the estimated cost to the City's income.

The Safety Service Director is also a member of the Planning Commission that interacts with new development and makes recommendations to the zoning board.

The Director is also responsible for reporting various needs, and conditions to council, along with providing information so that City Council may make informed decisions.