Interim city manager appointed until long-term replacement is found

Cambria County, PA — Frustration voiced by the public during the appointment of an interim city manager earlier Friday evening in Johnstown.

The city’s council gathering for the motion at 5:30 pm.

“I wish they didn't hire you. Good luck.” says one Johnstown business owner.

“We think this is the best temporary solution.” says Johnstown Mayor, Frank Janakovic.

The only new part of the agenda for the council meeting at the Johnstown public safety building, in Cambria county, was the appointment of an interim city manager.

Councilman Charles Arnone making the motion, with it being seconded by councilman Ricky Britt.

This follows the original 60-day-notice given by Ethan Imhoff at the beginning of this month, who city leaders say is leaving the city manager position.

Imhoff has worked as Johnstown's city manager since January of 2022.

He cited family reasons for stepping down from his position.

City officials now looking for a permanent replacement.

“So, we’re probably hoping by the end of this summer, we will have a full-time city manager, if not sooner.” Janakovic says.

Imhoff has since been approved to work as the borough manager for the Hollidaysburg borough council.

One Johnstown business owner, Dustin Greene took to the stand for public comment, limited to 3 minutes. He says “seeing Imhoff stepping out, and a new person coming in, is a revolving door that needs to stop.”

“This young business person of Johnstown is tired. Ethan, enjoy your ride over to Hollidaysburg, you’re lucky I'm not a resident over there, or I'd show up at that meeting too.” says Greene.

Councilmembers thanked Greene for his comments and said they appreciated him coming to other council meetings.

“We accepted the fact that you were very grateful and thankful, and we tried the best we could to help you.” Marie Mock, with the Johnstown city council says.

Council leaders say the temporary acting part-time co-city manager will be Melissa Komar with a salary of $70.84.

They say they are appointing Robert Statler as the other temporary acting part-time co-city manager for human resources, with a pay rate of $20 above his current hourly rate, which was not specified at the meeting.

We're told Imhoff will begin his new managerial role on June 17th.

Mayor Janakovic says the deadline to apply for the official city manager position is May 31st.

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