Burger nominated county budget manager

Kitsap County Administrative Services Director Ben Holland has recommended Don Burger as the county’s new budget manager.

Burger will replace Arley Bright, who has resigned.

“Don has a good knowledge about the fine points of county business,” Holland said. “He has a business degree, and he is well-respected and has the organizational skills and the management skills to do the job.”

Burger retired from the Navy in 2003 and then went to work as an administrative assistant in the county commissioners’ office. He became chief deputy treasurer in May 2006.

The appointment must be approved by the county commissioners by a two-thirds vote.

According to the official job description, the budget manager plans, organizes and directs the development and administration of the county budget. The pay ranges from $58,531 to $74,713 per year.

Bright, who was appointed budget director in February 2005, left the job earlier this month. Holland would not say why Bright resigned, but noted, “I am sorry to see him go.” 

With the county’s current budget problems, Holland said the timing of Bright’s resignation was not good. However, Holland feels that Burger will be able to get up to speed quickly.

Contacted at his home, Bright did not offer a reason for his resignation. He indicated that he may file a legal action.

“I’m still trying to wrap my arms around this,” he said. “I am not ready to talk about this, and am not sure whether I am going to contact a lawyer.”

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