CHARLESTON, W.Va. – For 16 years, Dave Hardy served on the Kanawha County Commission. But on Thursday, Hardy’s time on the board ended as he begins another job
Hardy will become the secretary for the Department of Revenue Friday. He was appointed to the position by Governor Jim Justice.
Hardy said he has mixed feelings about resigning.
“We’ve accomplished a lot,” Hardy said. “You always feel a sense of accomplishment but maybe a little bit of sadness when you leave a position that you’ve liked this much.”
Hardy said he learned a tremendous amount about Kanawha County during his time as commissioner.
“I feel like I understand this county and its people better than I ever thought I would,” Hardy said. “There’s 902 square miles to this county, 13 municipalities, 27 volunteer fire departments, 8 public service districts, and we’ve worked with everyone of them.”
Kanawha County Planning Director Steve Neddo said Hardy was always interested in how to best serve the county.
“He was always open about what he wanted and what he expected,” Neddo said. “It was very open and frank and easy to work with.”
Hardy said his next goal is helping solve the state’s budget crisis.
“If we can get the state’s finances on even keel, we can move the state forward,” Hardy said. “Right now, we’re looking at a budget shortfall of $450 million, and that is going to be addressed by our new governor with the help of our legislature.”
The county commission is advertising Hardy’s vacant seat for interested applicants. The commission will accept resumes until Jan. 30.
A list of candidates will be announced at the Jan. 31 commission meeting. Public interviews will begin Feb. 2.