ALFRED — York County Manager Greg Zinser has inked a new, five-year contract with the county government, 10 months ahead of the October expiration of his prior agreement.

York County Commissioners unanimously approved the contract, with no discussion or comment, at a recent meeting. 

Terms of the agreement call for a pay freeze for the first two years of the five years at his current salary of $127,570. Going forward, Zinser’s salary will increase “in the same matter provided to all non-union employees as determined by the county,” according to the contract, though commissioners, at their discretion, may grant an additional salary or benefit increase.

Zinser in an email said his new contract shifts money — about $5,000 — from a now defunct health savings account to his retirement account. He said he proposed changes that include elimination of a professional association membership and elimination of an expense allowance, the latter valued at about $1,500. In exchange, he said, the county will pay the full cost of his family health insurance plan.

Zinser estimated the deductions total about $7,500 and the additions total about $5,000.

According to the contract, the county manager is responsible for the administration of all departments and offices controlled by York County Commissioners.

Commissioner Michael Cote, in a telephone interview late last week, pointed out that county managers serve at the pleasure of an elected board, so inking a new contract gives the manager a sense of security going forward. 

Three of the five York County Commission terms expire at the end of the year and so three individuals elected in November will begin terms on Jan. 1. 

“It’s a challenging job,” said Cote of the manager’s position.“You have five people with five different views. You’ve got to figure out  how to please those five people and figure out what they want, and sometimes that isn’t easy. It’s a pretty responsible position he has.”

Cote said he believes Zinser has done a good job.

“Greg works pretty hard, he’s a smart man and he articulates our position pretty well,” said Cote.

“I personally am happy about it,” said Commission Chairman Sallie Chandler. “I think he has done an excellent job. It has not always been the easiest job but I believe he does what the commissioners want and he recommends what is in the best interest of the county.”

Zinser, for his part, said he’s prepared to stay on the full five years of his new contract — and beyond.

“I really like the job.” he said. “It’s a great place.”

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.