ELIZABETHTOWN -- The Essex County Board of Supervisors is poised to promote a long-time employee as the new personnel director.

Supervisors gave their support to Monica Feeley, a 21-year veteran of the Personnel Department, to become the new director.

Feeley would replace Daniel Palmer, who left the director's position last month to become the new county manager.

Palmer replaced Cliff Donaldson, who left the county after 12 years to take a job with the New York State Labor Department.

Feeley told supervisors at Monday's Personnel Committee meeting that with her lengthy experience in personnel matters, she could handle the duties.

Palmer said Feeley is a hard worker who deserves the job.

"My only concern is the process. If you decide to give it to her, then I hope you stick to it," Palmer said, noting that the official appointment of Feeley must go through the Ways and Means Committee next Monday and the full Board of Supervisors at its Sept. 2 meeting.

"I know pressure can be brought to bear," Palmer said, meaning that there might be some lobbying for others to get the job.

Supervisor Roby Politi (R-North Elba) said he did not understand what Palmer meant about pressure being applied.

"That's because you haven't been here long enough," Supervisor George Canon (R-Newcomb) said.

Supervisor Gerald Morrow (D-Chesterfield) said the county needs to make a decision soon.

"I have been here long enough, and I don't yield to pressure," he said.

Supervisor Randy Douglas (D-Jay), who chairs the Personnel Committee, said Feeley's salary for the director's job would be $55,000 per year.

jlotemplio@pressrepublican.com