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Quitting early would cost administrator

Gary Kuhl's contract is designed to discourage an early departure like his predecessor's.

By CHANDRA BROADWATER
Published January 27, 2006

BROOKSVILLE - If Gary Kuhl bolts early, as his predecessors have, there will be a price to pay.

But from all indications, the incoming county administrator seems unlikely to check out before his contract runs its course.

Earlier this week, Kuhl agreed to a four-year contract with the county beginning March 1. He will make $120,000 a year, plus health and retirement benefits.

Kuhl also will have use of a county car.

A clause was added to the agreement to help ensure he will stay the entire time. Five administrators have come and gone in Hernando in the past six years.

Gary Adams resigned in October after less than two years on the job. He cited negativity in the county.

If Kuhl quits early, he will lose part of his retirement and vacation money. The longer he stays, the more he will get.

"But we want to anticipate that he's going to stay the full time," said Commission Chairwoman Diane Rowden. "Besides, no one really sees him uprooting. He's been in this area for more than 30 years."

Kuhl said he hopes to stay in the job until he retires in five or six years.

A former Citrus County administrator, Kuhl, 59, currently works as operations director for the Southwest Florida Water Management District. He also has been employed by Hillsborough County.

Kuhl and his family lived for more than 10 years in Brooksville. They currently live in Floral City.

He said he would move back to Hernando County after six months on the job. He wants "some time to make sure they're happy with me," he said.

Commissioners unanimously approved his hiring last week. Kuhl beat out finalist Billy Beckett, a longtime public servant and part-time college football referee from Georgia.

The commission is expected to vote on the contract Feb. 14.

Chandra Broadwater can be reached at cbroadwater@sptimes.com or 352 848-1432.

[Last modified January 27, 2006, 01:21:16]