Commissioners hire executive director for Mahoning County
YOUNGSTOWN — Mahoning County government is in good hands again, commissioners say.
At Thursday’s regular meeting of the Mahoning County Board of Commissioners, members approved the hiring of Hollie Musolino-Goodin as executive director, effectively filling the role vacated by Audrey Tillis, who retired as county administrator last week.
“In her new role, Hollie will oversee daily administrative operations, coordinate interdepartmental initiatives and support the strategic goals and priorities of the Board of Commissioners,” the board said in a prepared statement. “She will serve as a key liaison between county leadership, staff, and the public, helping to ensure effective communication and efficient government services.”
Human Resources Manager Dina Wilson said Goodin’s role is not quite the same as Tillis’ role was.
“Much of the heavy finance work that Audrey did will go back to the Office of Management and Budget [run by Jennifer Pangio], I’ll handle much of the human resources work, and some other duties will be handled either by the commissioners or department heads,” she said.
Goodin has worked for the county since 2021, working her way up from deputy clerk to her most recent position, chief deputy clerk.
The commissioners’ statement also said: “During her tenure, she has demonstrated strong leadership, deep knowledge of county operations, and a clear commitment to public service. Hollie’s experience, professionalism, and dedication make her the ideal person to step into this important role.”
Wilson said the internal appointment was made by the commissioners as a natural progression of Goodin’s professional path within county government.
She said the final details of the contract are still being worked out. That includes Goodin’s salary. Records show Tillis made about $120,000 per year as county administrator.
Commissioner Geno DiFabio said Goodin has been extremely helpful in his six months on the job, and she was the obvious choice to succeed Tillis.
“In the absence of an administrator we knew we needed a strong organizer, and this is the route we decided to go because we recognize her skills and what she can do for the county,” he said.
Commissioner Carol Rimedio-Righetti praised Goodin’s experience in government and collaborative nature.
“Years ago, when Hollie was hired by the old crew, we knew at that time she had the passion for government,” she said. “We wish you well and we know you’ll work well with all of us together as a unit, and create a collaborative workforce with the team.”
Commissioner Anthony Traficanti said he values the personal touch Goodin brings to her interactions with other department heads and staff and with the public.
“Hollie, I always respect your good heart and good attitude towards the community,” he said. “You’ve done yeoman’s work, and I’ve known you for a long time. I know your family, and you come from good people.”
Goodin spoke humbly about the new responsibilities.
“I want to thank the three of you, from the bottom of my heart, for giving me this opportunity,” she said. “I thank Dina for coming on board and bringing a new mission, vision and values and to be a part of driving that process. I’m here for the three of you first and foremost, but I’m here for all of you, and we’re here to make Mahoning County better and move it forward in a positive, healthy and collaborative way. We’re a team.”