GALION, Ohio — Mayor Tom O’ Leary has announced Galion native Matt Echelberry will be the city’s new Public Information Officer.
Discussions to hire the controversial PIO began in September 2015. City council passed legislation 6-1 in late October to authorize the position. Funds were then allocated to accommodate the job in early December.
Council member Susan Bean consistently cast a dissenting vote during council meetings, stating it was a misappropriation of funds. Click here for additional information regarding how much Echelberry will make as Galion’s PIO.
There were nine applicants for the position.
According to a short biography written by city officials, Echelberry was born in Galion and raised in rural Crawford County. He has an English degree from Heidelberg University, where he graduated in 2012.
Echelberry previously worked for the Galion Inquirer for three years as a reporter. Most recently he served in various capacities at Lifetouch.
O’Leary said Echelberry is able to begin work next week.
