Ross commissioners want to see what their preliminary 2010 budget looks like before they take any action to hire a finance director.

Commissioners last night voted down a proposal to advertise for candidates for the job last night.

"I think we should put this position on hold until we see what the budget numbers look like," Commissioner Grace Stanko said.

Daniel DeMarco, president of the board of commissioners, urged his colleagues at least to advertise the opening and interview potential employees. "We don't have to hire anyone until we see the [2010] budget," he said.

The motion to seek candidates for the job failed on a 3-3 tie vote. Commissioners Gerald O'Brien and Daniel Kinross and Mr. DeMarco voted to advertise the position. Commissioners David Mikec and Grant Montgomery joined Mrs. Stanko in opposition.

The position has been vacant since former finance director Wayne Jones was promoted last year to township manager. Mr. Jones has being doing both jobs, but he has advised commissioners he eventually will need some relief.