BRIDGEPORT — The Bridgeport Exempted Village School District has a new treasurer after Eric Meininger began his new duties Aug. 1.

The former West Liberty University basketball standout served as assistant treasurer under interim treasurer Matt King following the resignation of Dana Garrison earlier this year.

“I can’t thank Matt enough. I learned a lot from him in a short time,” he said. “I’m excited for the future and the opportunity to keep the district fiscally sound moving forward.”

When asked how the district’s finances were going, Meininger didn’t hesitate when answering.

“The district is fiscally sound going forward,” he stressed.

The 2019 WLU graduate couldn’t wait to take over the reins.

“I’m very excited about this opportunity. I’ve settled in over the last six months. I want to thank Mr. (Brent) Ripley and the administration for taking me in and giving me this opportunity,” he said.

“I plan to take advantage of it and hit the ground running. I’m excited for what the future holds. I’m thankful to be a Bulldog.”

Ripley is glad the district has a young person like Meininger in a position like this.

“He’s ready to go. We had a good mentor for him,” Ripley said of King, who tutored Meininger on the finer points of the position while serving as the interim treasurer. “Jay Tingle out of (the) Ridgewood School District helped out, as well.”

Ripley is sure that Meininger is capable of handling the duties.

“Eric is like a sponge. He soaked up the information they were providing him with immediately,” Ripley praised. “He is wise beyond his years. He may be a recent college graduate, but financially he is well ahead of his years. We’re glad to have him for a long term.”

Meininger, who will earn approximately $87,000 annually, grew up in the Dayton suburb of Centerville.