LEGISLATURE STUFF - Twice as Nice

Above photo: Wes Benson (center) has been named a Greene County “Employee of the Year,” being presented with a plaque during a county legislature meeting, last week, by (left) county highway superintendent Scott Templeton and legislature chairman Patrick Linger.

Greene County named Lee Gerber (center) as an “Employee of the Year” at a recent meeting where he was joined by Information Technology department director Shameen Rucker (left) and legislature chairman Patrick Linger.

CATSKILL - The recipients were so nice the Greene County Legislature had to do it twice, announcing the annual “Employee of the Year.”

Lawmakers introduced Wes Benson and Lee Gerber as the co-awardees, during a meeting, last Wednesday night, a circumstance explained by legislature chairman Patrick Linger.

“There was.a tie in the voting,” Linger said, and since they are equally deserving, the county went with two plaques rather than one.

Benson, a resident of the town of Jewett, ran a repair shop in the town of Ashland for thirty years, working on large and small vehicles, shifting to county highway garage manager five years ago.

He was hornswoggled into attending the legislative session by county highway superintendent Scott Templeton. “He told me the legislature wanted to know more about our operations,” Benson says.

“So this was a total surprise,” Benson says, although he figured something must be up, a few minutes before the meeting got underway.

“I saw my sister and brother-in-law, who came all the way from Long Island, and then I saw my wife and daughter. I was like, ‘what the heck?’

“My daughter and Scott put my name in without me knowing. I feel very appreciative. I enjoy going into work every day,” Benson says.

Feelings are mutual from the county. “Over the past year, [Benson] has positively influenced the operations of more than 14 county departments through his significant contributions to the county’s Fleet Management Program,” said legislature chairman Patrick Linger, presenting the award.

“His efforts have directly enhanced vehicle reliability, operational readiness and interdepartmental cooperation - ensuring departments can perform their critical functions safely and efficiently.”

Benson’s work “consistently reflects a deep understanding of the county’s mission and the vital role fleet services play in supporting it,” Linger said.

“What truly sets him apart, however, is his patience, professionalism and ability to mentor staff. He leads by example, taking the time to guide and develop our employees with respect and encouragement.

“His calm demeanor and willingness to teach have strengthened our workforce, improved morale and fostered a culture of accountability and teamwork,” Linger said.

Benson has, “repeatedly demonstrated his willingness to answer the call of duty. Whether responding to emergencies, after-hours issues or urgent operational needs, he consistently steps forward without hesitation.”

The county’s Fleet Management Program calls upon Benson and his shop to maintain hundreds of pieces of equipment from multiple departments including the sheriff’s office, Social Services, 911 Center, etc.

And as for being a co-winner, Benson says, “I couldn’t pick a better guy to share this with than Lee Gerber. We’ve worked with Lee many times on computers in our shop. He is a real pleasure.”

Gerber is a network support technician with the Information Technology department who, “approaches every responsibility with strong problem-solving skills, outstanding customer service and a genuine eagerness to take on new projects, mastering expanding responsibilities with confidence and precisions,” Linger said.

“He thrives in a team environment and consistently sets a standard of excellence that others naturally follow.”

Gerber, “stepped forward without hesitation to take the lead in a critical project. In doing so, he became a stabilizing force for the entire department,” Linger said.

“His leadership, sound judgement and reliability during that pivotal time ensured uninterrupted operations and directly supported the county’s ability to function without disruption,” Linger said.

Gerber, “consistently goes above and beyond in his role, earning good-natured, playing teasing within the department  - a clear testament to how strongly his work ethic stands out among his peers.

“His ability to balance technical execution with empathy and clear communication is both rare and invaluable,” Linger said.

“Beyond measurable outcomes, his presence enhances departmental morale. His professionalism, teamwork and commitment elevate those around him, fostering a stronger, more resilient department.

“He is a true friend to all in the workplace. More than simply being friendly, he builds deep, meaningful connections with those around him and is truly valued by his colleagues,” Linger said.

“We proudly recognize this employee’s exceptional reliability, initiative, technical expertise and positive impact on both his department and Greene County as a whole.”