An interim director has been appointed for the Berrien County Road Department. During Thursday’s meeting of the Berrien County Board of Commissioners, a motion to name Neil Coulston to the position was approved unanimously. Department Director Jason Latham has been on leave since last Thursday. Board Chair Mac Elliott said Coulston is a good fit to replace Latham for the time being.
“Mr. Coulston has extensive public works experience along with other service in the public sector,” Elliott said. “I am confident he’s well qualified to serve as interim road director until the administrative review is completed.”
Elliott said the board cannot comment on why Latham was placed on leave. He did promise township officials the roads will be taken care of.
“I think we would all agree that you have our commitment that the staff at the road department will continue to provide excellent service and support as we work through this process.”
Commissioner Dave Volrath said he knows people in his district are concerned with the way Latham was taken off duty last week. Elliott said County Administrator Brian Dissette is reviewing the situation and no further comments can be made on the matter. Coulston is the former director of public works for the city of Niles.
