Despite rumors to the contrary, Eric Gerber isn’t going anywhere.

The Oak Harbor city councilman got a plum job as parks project manager for the city of Mercer Island. Nevertheless, he plans to continue serving on the city council.

It’s a long drive to Mercer Island, but Gerber said the job is flexible.

“I can do some telecommuting,” he said, “and they’re very supportive in allowing me to work my schedule so I have plenty of time for council business.”

Gerber, a recently remarried father of two boys, is in the process of phasing out his business, Gerb’s Landscape.

Gerber has a strong background in parks and youth recreation. He was formerly the director of Oak Harbor’s recreation program and worked for the parks department before his position was cut due to budget problems caused by voter initiatives. He was also a commissioner for the North Whidbey Park and Recreation District.

Gerber said he doesn’t plan to take any time off because of his job. He said there was some confusion in city hall after he announced he would be gone for two weeks on vacation with his family in Florida, which is where he is this week. Somehow, he said, a rumor started that he wanted a two-month leave of absence because of his new job.

Gerber had been toying with the idea of running for mayor this year, but he said the new job will “probably” rule that out.

“But you never know,” he said.

You can reach News-Times reporter Jessie Stensland at jstensland@whidbeynewstimes.com or call 675-6611.