Jim Davis Takes Over as Utilities, Service Director

Jim Davis, owner of , has taken over the position of superintendent of utilities, service and recreation, from which  recently retired.

Davis served his first day Monday.

Mayor David Held talked with North Canton Patch about the hiring of Davis after Monday night's North Canton City Council meeting.

"He's going to continue all of the hard work Tom Chufar has put in for so many years," Held said.

Davis will earn the same pay as Chufar — $64,300. Held said the city saves money because Davis isn't eligible for some of the benefits Chufar received.

Davis said Monday night he was excited to serve the residents of North Canton and continue his involvement in the community. Davis started Big Dog Lacrosse in 2009 and turned it into a full-time career after closing his concrete leveling business in 2010. Big Dog Lacrosse offers lacrosse leagues and off-season training sessions for youth and their parents in Stark County.

He said his new position won't change his level of involvement in Big Dog Lacrosse.

Davis is a graduate of Marlington High School, an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, vice president of U.S. Lacrosee - North Coast Ohio Chapter, a board member of the Stark County Sports Advisory Council and business ambassador for Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.

He's lived in North Canton for about 13 years with his wife Jennifer and their four kids.

"I’m excited to be there and look forward to serving the community," he said.