Harrison mulls hiring consultant to guide township in manager search

The Harrison commissioners might seek outside help to hire the township’s next manager.

Chairman Gary Meanor said the board is discussing the need for a consultant to guide the process.

“We have a job description but would like an outside agency to help with reviewing it along with recommendations on salary,” Meanor said.

The township is without a day-to-day head since John Pallone resigned in September after six months on the job.

Pallone is a former five-term state legislator and former superintendent of New Kensington- Arnold School District.

He was hired in March at a salary of $80,000 a year to serve not only as manager but also as chief administrative officer of Harrison’s police pension fund, the nonuniformed pension fund and as the Right-To-Know officer.

Longtime Township Secretary Susan Motosicky will run daily operations in the meantime.

Commissioner Jim Erb said he is looking for a candidate who knows municipal government and is willing to work a 40-hour week.

“I want someone who wants to be an essential part of the success of Harrison,” Erb said.

The township’s next meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Oct. 24.

Commissioner Chuck Dizard said he hopes to find a manager who has a college degree, advanced financial and computer software skills and team-building skills.

“I would like a strategic thinker and someone with evidence of successful community outreach,” he said.