A new Commissioner of Social Services has been named by Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. He's nominated Al Dirschberger to take over for outgoing Commissioner Carol Dankert-Maurer. Dirschberger says his strengths include 28 years of working with underserved populations. And being able to engage the community and service providers.
"And an open mindedness to be creative and look at things outside the box. And how we can look at problems within human services. And to really strengthen services. Being very creative," Dirschberger said.
Currently, Dirschberger is the Executive Director of Journey's End Refugee Services. Poloncarz says he sees no problem with the legislature approving his nomination. He says Dirschberger's first day on the job is Monday.