The Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities marked a milestone at their Thursday evening meeting by celebrating with Superintendent Saul Bauer his last meeting as he heads toward retirement.
After 11 years as the superintendent and 28 years in the field, Bauer’s retirement is effective Dec. 31.
Krista Oldiges will step in as the new executive director. She has participated in the recent meetings and will take over as the executive director and future LCBDD superintendent Jan. 1.
The Board expressed the LCBDD is excited to see what the future holds under Mrs. Oldiges’ leadership. She brings over 24 years of experience in the field, a wealth of knowledge and a strong passion for the mission of “Empowering people with developmental disabilities to contribute as valued members of our community.”
Bauer will stay on staff as an adviser to Oldiges until she receives her superintendent certification and through 2023.
“His daily presence will be missed by staff, providers and individuals, but he is wished all the best in his future endeavors,” board representatives said.
A retirement open house for Bauer is set for 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12, at the administrative office, located at 1851 W. State Route 47, for anyone who would like to stop by, wish Bauer well and meet the new superintendent.
“With the retirement of Superintendent Bauer, I am honored to have been selected to lead the agency,” Oldiges said. “I look forward to continuing the legacy of a responsibly-governed organization with excellent services. I embrace the opportunity to work with a passionate team of professionals to find creative ways to support people with developmental disabilities in our community.”
In other news, several renewal contracts were approved for continuing services, including contracts with RTC Industries for adult day, transportation, teen recreation and many other services. West Central Ohio Network (WestCON) continues to provide financial, community relations, provider, MUI, intake, eligibility and waiting list services, and this renewal contract was approved as well.
An Interagency Agreement was approved to continue working with local education authorities to ensure appropriate public education is provided to all preschool children who are eligible for special education services. The centralized model that children are best served by integration with children developing typically and that this model is best administered and operated by LCBDD, for the purpose of compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was agreed upon and approved by the board.
The Discovery Center collaborates with the local school districts to provide a continuum of services to preschoolers in Logan County.
Board meetings are typically conducted the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the board office. There is no meeting the first week of January. The next meeting of the board is Jan. 26.