GIRARD — Starting Monday, the city administration will see a new face as Mayor Mark Zuppo has appointed Mark Ragozine as safety service director.

Zuppo made the announcement Monday at the city council meeting where he and council thanked Sal Ponzio, who served in the position in 2024. He always had planned to step down after one year.

Ponzio submitted his resignation letter effective Friday, but has offered to continue working to help Ragozine become familiar with the position and to ease the transition, as many projects are planned in the city this year. Ponzio will work 20 hours per week for up to three months during the transition.

“Mark (Zuppo) knew I would help him get started in his first year as mayor. It has been an honor to work with him. He is doing a great job,” Ponzio said.

Ragozine, who will start Monday, is a former city councilman who most recently worked with Eastgate Regional Council of Governments.

“Mark (Ragozine) will bring a wealth of information to the position with his experience and work at Eastgate,” Ponzio said.

Zuppo said Ragozine has a background in economic development and public administration.

Ragozine also will serve on the tax incentive review board.

In other business, council gave second reading to pay increases for three appointed positions.

Pay increases include the safety-service director from $64,000 to $75,000, part-time council clerk from $6,700 to $8,811 and parks and recreation director from $35,000 to $40,000.

The city also is preparing to move forward with the removal of asbestos from the Wellman Theater with legislation requested for the Feb. 10 meeting to enter into a contract with A&I Health Solutions at $56,405, which will be paid for with American Rescue Plan funds.

Councilwoman Lily Martuccio, D-at-Large,said there will be a meeting with MS Consultants on the asbestos removal.