Patrick Fama is now the full-time executive director of the Niagara Falls Water Board, with "acting" removed from his job title.
Fama, a Niagara Falls native who has worked with the Water Board for the past 25 years, served previously as a microbiologist and director for its Water Treatment Plant Laboratory. Under the three-year contract which gives Fama a permanent role as executive director, he'll earn an annual salary of $120,000.
Fama held the role on an acting basis since January, when the Water Board began a nationwide search for an executive director.
In a prepared written statement, Water Board chairman Dan O'Callaghan explains: "After taking a hard look at potential candidates, we felt that Patrick’s experience and performance over the last several months as Acting Executive Director made him the best choice for the position. The compensation level that was reached was very competitive and reflective of our respect for ratepayer dollars and the expertise Patrick brings to our organization."
Fama holds a NYS Grade 1A Water Treatment Plant Operator License and an environmental biology degree from the SUNY College of Environmental Sciences and Forestry.
The Water Board also approved a one-year contract for current Director of Administrative Services James Perry, valued at $92,400. It's a raise for Perry, who was previously earning $88,000 annually.
