Lakewood Schools Treasurer to Step Down

The search for a successor begins. 

After over a decade spent with the district, Treasurer Rick Berdine has decided to resign at the end of 2012. 

In the meantime, he’ll continue to manage the district’s financial affairs, help find the next treasurer and aid him or her in transitioning to the new role. 

Treasurer Richard Berdine will be resigning from his position as of Dec. 31, 2012.

The long lead time for his departure gives the district ample time to find a successor and allows Berdine to be involved in that process as well as help with the transition to a new treasurer. 

“During his tenure with the district, which began in 1998, Berdine has kept Lakewood City Schools in solid financial shape during some of the most trying economic times in a generation," said Lakewood Schools spokeswoman Christine Gordillo in a prepared statement.

“He oversaw an award-winning $130 million school construction project that has seen four new schools built and three completely renovated. 

“…He was instrumental in helping the district weather the recent recession without significant number of layoffs and programming cuts that other districts have experienced.” 

However, financial hardship will most likely be the new treasurer’s biggest challenge as the district is anticipating a over the next two years alone. 

In response to an e-mail sent to Berdine seeking comment, he said he had nothing further to add at this time.