City officials like Mayor Pamela Bobst and Police Chief George Lichman are likely easily recognizable to residents because they spend so much time out in the community. But, there are many others at City Hall who work tirelessly to make sure trash is removed, the city’s computers keep humming and holiday events are wrapped in hometown pride.
Here is a snapshot of four of these unsung heroes. The next time you bump into one of them, give them a warm smile and a nod of appreciation. Their dedication to making the community a better place is unwavering, and their efforts are tremendous.
Kathryn Kerber, Director of Planning and Community Development
Length of service: Since January 2024
What she does: In this newly created position, Kerber oversees the land-use commissions, including the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning and Building Appeals and the Design and Construction Board of Review. She is also responsible for writing grants for city projects as well as assisting in organizing community events, such as Discovery Day at Bradstreet’s Landing Park and the holiday parade. She also serves as the city liaison for the Rocky River Chamber of Commerce. “It’s sort of an assortment, which is great because I love doing a lot of different things,” she says.
How her role impacts the community: Kerber’s behind-the-scenes work on projects like updating the city’s zoning map and creating a master plan for Rocky River Park not only help to make the administration more efficient in serving the next generation, but help to improve city resources that assist in making amenities more accessible for all residents.
Sam Rosario, Service Commissioner
Length of service: Since February 2024
What he does: Supervising approximately 55 employees, Rosario tends to matters in the city’s traffic department, mechanics department, parks department, sewer department, rubbish transfer station and the streets division.
How his role impacts the community: Every day, Rosario takes to the streets in his white service truck, waving to everyone he sees. Along the routes, he makes sure potholes are covered, sewers are in working order, trees are trimmed, parks are maintained, garbage is hauled away and emergency vehicles are mechanically sound. Considered the eyes and ears of the operation, Rosario gives credit for the heavy lifting to his staff. “I get to work with a bunch of great people who know their jobs, and they do as well of a job out in the streets as I try to do with them,” he says. “They let me do the administrative part, and I know that they’re doing a good job taking care of the residents.”
Richard (Ricky) Bycoskie, Information Technology Director
Length of service: Since 2022
What he does: With a passion for computers and a pulse on the latest technology, Bycoskie manages all city employees’ computers, the servers that operate them and any devices that require seamless communication, such as police cruiser electronics as well as dedicated servers for the police, fire and city services.
How his role impacts the community: Bycoskie is the backbone of the operations that enable all city employees to do their jobs. Whether it’s a clerk entering the most recent meeting minutes, a request for a building permit or a resident signing up for a class at the rec center, Bycoskie has a hand in collecting and safely storing information that is used to deliver services to residents. Ultimately, his knowledge of technology that most rely on so heavily is what allows the city’s departments to run smoothly. “I love knowing that I’m contributing to the community and keeping everyone happy,” he says.
Steve Elek, Operations Manager
Length of service: 32 years (current position since September 2024)
What he does: While Elek has been serving the city for 32 years in a wide range of job descriptions, all of them have involved keeping areas clean and safe. Currently, he oversees the operation of the city garage and its various divisions, including sewers, parks, refuse, streets, signs and signals and the transfer station.
How his role impacts the community: In his managerial role, Elek serves as the go-to person to work out any problems departments may encounter. He also coordinates larger issues, such as cleanup from storms and other natural disasters. With an eye on city streets, Elek likes to ensure garbage is picked up in a timely manner, animal carcasses don’t linger and bulk items are hauled away swiftly. “I just like making residents happy,” he says. “If they have a problem, I like to take care of it for them.”
