Erichsen almost loses his job

By Ahmar Khan

ST. MARY'S TODAY

LEONARDTOWN --- A senior official in St. Mary’s County government came inches close to losing his job Tuesday evening.

The NAYS were heard as the Board of County Commissioners considered an action item from County Administrator George Forrest’s renew the job contracts for senior officials at the thick brick-walled Governmental Center.

The loud nays reverberated across Room 14 of the Governmental Center when the name of Public Works and Transportation director George Erichsen was announced. Those who voted to unsaddle him from his seat were Commissioner President Tommy McKay (R. Hollywood) and Dan Raley (D Great Mills).

Erichsen had been under a cloud for quite some time as some county commissioners were expressing dismay over his alleged ossified approach and cockiness in the their social and private gatherings.

The beleaguered Erichsen seemed to have stepped on quite a few toes and was lately seen closeted with financial director Elaine Kramer, who might have lobbied for saving his job.

Other public officials ever-smiling Jennifer Fabbricante, Sue Sabo, John Savich, Bob Kelly, Phil Rollins and tight-lipped Denis Canavan got their job extensions without much ado.

But Larry Jarboe (R. Golden Beach) thought the county needs Erichsen’s professional expertise. “Erichsen has solid knowledge of solid waste management. We need him,” said Jarboe.