For the first time, Austintown Township has appointed an assistant fiscal officer.

Some residents and one township trustee are raising some questions over the move because it adds a position, including a salary increase, when there are budget constraints.

However, Austintown Township Fiscal Officer Laurie Wolfe said that's exactly why they're bringing on an assistant. 

Wolfe appointed Amy O'Brien to fill the full-time position with a salary of $95,000. 

"I think it was needed quite a while ago," Wolfe said, "based on the size of our township and the budget and the amount of employees and everything else that we have, I understand there are budget constraints."

O'Brien has worked in the fiscal office for more than a decade, and said this move will be good for the township, as O'Brien was integral in restoring the township's audible status in 2016.

Wolfe, an elected official who works part-time, said O'Brien will be handling a range of tasks that need attention. 

"She's going to account for different records and transit transactions, assist with internal controls, and, again, most importantly, day-to-day monitoring of expenses and payroll," Wolfe said, "That's going to greatly improve the fiscal responsibility of the township."

In total, O'Brien's compensation increase will cost the township about $2800 annually, but some are raising questions. 

Trustee Robert Santos said this new appointment means O'Brien's former position as a union accountant worker is left unfilled, which could lead to an additional expense at a time when finances are tight.

Wolfe wouldn't comment on whether the position is being filled, but said, "In the long run, I think it's going to save the township money."

Trustee Monica Deavers said she trusts Wolfe's decision to promote O'Brien and points out that state law provides the fiscal officer with a range of authorities without needing trustee approval.