Staff Writer

In a month’s time, Mark Tyner’s family has made Pike County home.

Tyner became the new Pike County administrator after being hired at a county commission meeting in late April.

Since moving from Hartselle, where he was city clerk and treasurer, Tyner, his wife, Jennifer, and 18-month-old daughter, Haley, have found they like the area and look forward to living here a while. A second child is expected in the fall.

Being in "a college town" really makes Pike County feel like home to the Tuscaloosa native.

And, he’s finding the job to his liking, as well.

It was Tyner’s "wealth of governmental experience" that made him the commission’s choice as the new administrator, according to Chairman Willie Thomas.

Tyner earned his bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Alabama in 1994 and a master’s degree in public administration in 1998. He was an intern with the city of Northport before moving to Hartselle.

"I think I have a good group to work with that will allow me to do the job I was hired to do," Tyner said of the commission.

As county administrator, Tyner said, he has already found plenty to keep him busy.

He’s been learning where all the polling places are located, among other things.

"I want to increase our reserve," he said of the county’s coffers. "That’s the main priority."

Other things that will have to be faced include finding funding for a new jail, which Tyner calls his "next big project" and redistricting.

"I’m looking forward to facing the challenges," he said.

In the meantime, Tyner is still learning about the county every day and has found he enjoys working with those around him.

"I’m having to rely on the staff a lot while I get accustomed to the job," Tyner said, adding they have been more than helpful during this time of transition.

The last county administrator, Steve Hicks, left to go work for the city of Enterprise in February.

During his final interview for the job, Tyner told commissioners he considers himself a "transformational leader," meaning he can act authoritatively or use his preferred style of democratic leadership, giving staff members input into decisions.

"I think I’m a good listener and I believe in the team concept," Tyner said of his managerial style. "I don’t like to come in and be a dictator."

While he’s not focusing on the county’s future, Tyner likes spending time with his family and hopes to renew an old hobby by starting an aquarium soon.