By Kevin Greer
Lakeside Communications Manager
Ash Koscielski is a familiar face around the Fountain Inn and Hotel Lakeside, as well as other hotels around Port Clinton and the Marblehead Peninsula.
Koscielski (they/them) has been part of the hotel staff at Lakeside for the last three years. They were recently promoted to General Manager for the community’s two hotels.
Koscielski said it’s been a smooth transition so far, with a few more duties added.
During Koscielski’s time as front desk supervisor, then assistant manager, they did payroll, scheduling and general front desk duties, like booking rooms and guest feedback. Koscielski is now doing the recruiting and hiring. There are still openings for front desk and housekeeping.
“As time went on, I kind of picked up more and more,” Koscielski said. “It’s big new step. It’s been exciting to learn the process and get more in depth with new recruits, onboarding them and welcoming them to the team.”
Koscielski is originally from the Cleveland suburbs and has worked in hotels for 15 years, all in the Port Clinton area. They moved to Ottawa County with family, but stayed in the area after the family moved back.
One of the first things Koscielski implemented was adding five pet-friendly rooms on the first floor in the Fountain Inn. Additional cost for pets is $50, maximum of two per room.
“I’m a big pet lover” Koscielski said. “I want people to have the option to bring their pet family with them too.”
Koscielski is excited for the Hotel Lakeside 150th anniversary celebration. Koscielski said it’s one of Lakeside’s most unique places.
“I think just the history,” Koscielski said. “Places like that are few and far between. It’s all about the building, furniture, stories and history. It’s important and special.”
Koscielski hasn’t set any lofty goals for their first season as General Manager. They will be “conservative” making changes and want to make the guests comfortable during their stay. They report directly to Charles Allen, President & CEO.
“I’ll be making sure that the changes make sense and give us progress towards our ultimate goals,” Koscielski said. “I’m excited to be in the role and learn and do as much as I can, help the team and provide safe and comfortable housing for guests.”
