Tony Gomillion

The Santa Rosa County Commission voted unanimously on Monday to offer the county’s top non-elected job to a 29-year veteran employee.

The commission offers the job to Jay resident Tony Gomillion, who us currently the county’s director of public services.

Public services includes the departments of development services, emergency management, animal services and veterans services. He has held that position since 2003.

Prior to that, Gomillion served as the county’s environmental control director since 1986. In that position, he oversaw the county landfill, recycling program and mosquito control effects, among other activities.

Gomillion was one of 58 applicants who sought the job following a nationwide search. He was the only Santa Rosa County employee to apply. He listed current County Administrator Hunter Walker as a professional reference.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of West Florida.

Walker announced earlier this year that he would retire by year’s end.

The county advertised an annual salary range of $115,000 to $145,000 for the job, based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Walker’s current salary is $132,412. As public services director, Gomilion earns $112,360 annually.

On Thursday, the commissioners are expected to vote to direct County Attorney Roy Andrews to negotiate a contract with Gomillion.