Sheriff Mason out of area, currently on leave as warden / By Martha Knight

SMETHPORT—Sheriff Brad Mason is out of the area, but plans to return to his three county jobs, according to various “inside sources.”

As the elected sheriff, Mason can set his own hours and vacation time, so long as the sheriff’s department is operating as required. He has taken some vacation time as sheriff, recently.

Mason also holds two appointive positions, having been named to those by the McKean County Commissioners. Those positions are warden of the McKean County Jail, and EMS Coordinator, (coordinating the McKean County Emergency Management Agency and the 911 service).

Mason took 15 days (three weeks) of paid vacation beginning in June. He then asked the commissioners for an unpaid leave of absence through July 14, and the commissioners granted the request.

According to commissioner chairman Joe DeMott, Mason is expected to return to his duties at that point.

Mason’s salary as sheriff is $53,123. He receives $30,000 as warden. His salaries are paid in 26 pay periods. The commissioners have no control over Mason’s tenure as sheriff, but the warden and EMS coordinator serve at the commissioners’ pleasure.

Sources who declined to be quoted directly for attribution indicated that Mason has been out of the area doing some private security work. Some gave his location as “in Ohio” and stated that the security work is for a pipeline company and pays better than the county positions.

Commissioners and other officials have said Mason’s prolonged absence has not interfered with county government functions. A chief deputy sheriff holds responsibility in the sheriff’s office. There are two acting wardens for jail administration matters, Dave Stahlman and Rick Austin. At the EMS Center Bruce Manning heads the county EMA, and Andrew Johnson is 911 director.