LISBON, Ohio – Thirty years of public service by Penny Traina, Columbiana County Port Authority CEO and executive director, were recognized Monday as the port authority board of directors accepted her retirement notice during its regular monthly meeting.
Traina’s retirement will take effect April 1, ending nine years of leading the port authority as well as having served on its board and as its fiscal officer from 2012-2015. She also served four years as a county commissioner and 15 years with the Wellsville Local School District in a variety of capacities, including its treasurer, until 2007.
In announcing her retirement in a previous interview, Traina said she and her husband, Doug Haddox, plan on doing some traveling and spending time with their grandchildren once her career with the port authority is over.
During Monday’s meeting, Traina extended her gratitude to those present, which included the board members, her team members and some longtime port employees whose retirements were also recognized during the session. Board Secretary David Bickerton attended the meeting via telephone.
“Looking back on all that we’ve accomplished, I am filled with immense pride,” Traina said. “Together, we have not only worked to advance the economic development of our county and region, but have also nurtured ideas, built partnerships and created opportunities for growth and prosperity. The impact we’ve made will continue to ripple through the region long after I’m gone. And for that, I am truly grateful.”
She thanked board members and port authority attorney Tim Brookes for their guidance, vision and unwavering support. “Your commitment to improving the county and region, even in the face of challenges, has been inspiring,” she said. “I’ve learned so much from your leadership and wisdom.”
Traina also acknowledged her “incredible team” of employees. “You have been the backbone of everything we’ve done,” she said. “Your dedication, creativity and tireless efforts have made this team what it is. You all brought your best selves every day, and it’s a joy to see the growth of not only our projects but of each individual.”
Traina said her retirement is bittersweet – “… Sweet in the sense that I look forward to new adventures and my next journey, but bitter because I’ll miss the camaraderie and purpose that came from working with such a dynamic and driven group of people.”
Board Chairman Charlie Presley called for a motion on Traina’s retirement. “I hear no motion,” he said jokingly, before reluctantly making the motion himself.
“Change is something human nature isn’t overly fond of, including myself,” Presley said. He added that with 40 years of business experience, he realizes change is what needs to be done for a successful enterprise. “And you, Penny, have done that,” he said. “We’ve seen a lot of growth. We’ve never been in better condition.”
Presley said the board isn’t happy about Traina’s retirement, but “she has left the port authority in a great position for the immediate future. We virtually have no debt and close to $4 million [in revenue’.”
The port authority receives no government funding at the local, state or federal level, with all revenue generated by its staff members, which Presley said will continue as part of its success.
“We’re comfortable with where we’re at,” he said. He added that there’s no immediate need to conduct a search for a replacement for Traina.
As per the port authority’s bylaws, Presley will assume the powers of the executive director until the board makes a decision on how to proceed with a replacement, and he said he will work closely with Brittany Smith, assistant executive director.
Naming a new CEO/executive director “isn’t something we have to do in a couple of months,” Presley said. He added that it could take as long as a year.
“Replacing Penny is not going to be an easy task,” he said.
“My heart is broken that Penny is leaving,” Smith said. “I’ll miss her leadership and her mentorship. I look forward to working with Charley to move projects forward.”
Presley presented to Traina an engraved silver tray that notes the appreciation for her years of service, leadership and dedication. She will be recognized during a retirement party at the port authority offices next Monday.
Also during the meeting, Traina recognized the retirement of John and Cassy Stephens and John Stephens Jr., who have provided janitorial services for the port authority facilities the past 35 years.
“As you retire, we reflect on the tremendous contribution you’ve made to our workplace, and we are truly grateful for all your work and dedication,” Traina told the family. “Your efforts have ensured that our office environment was always clean, comfortable and welcoming, providing a foundation for our employees and clients to thrive in,” she said. “The consistency and attention to detail you brought to your work made a lasting impact that went far beyond what most people would notice.”
Traina also introduced newly hired employee Elise Wallace, a project coordinator who will oversee and coordinate various key projects.
Pictured at top: From left are Charley Presley, board chairman; Brittany Smith, assistant executive director; Nick Amato, board vice chairman; Penny Traina, port authority CEO/executive director; Tad Herold, board fiscal officer; Tim Brookes, board attorney; Glenda Schafer, executive assistant; Elise Wallace, project coordinator; and Haedan Panezott, private sector specialist.