Columbia Borough Council answers questions from residents about hiring of managers | Community News

When: Columbia Borough Council meeting, Aug. 7.

What happened: Council has interviewed one candidate for the position of borough manager so far, Heather Zink, president, said, responding to questions from residents Sharon Lintner and Frank Doutrich about the hiring process for borough and finance managers.

Background: In May, council ratified the termination of Michelle Jenkins as finance manager. Barbara Fisher, council member, said an independent contractor and the borough bookkeeper have been handling the extra work until a finance manager is hired. In September, Steven Kaufhold will retire from his position as borough manager.

Hiring authority: Zink clarified that council interviews and hires a borough manager. Council approves a finance manager and that person’s salary, but the borough manager is the hiring authority for that position.

Hiring process: The hiring pool for municipal management positions is low, Zink said, adding that other municipalities have had difficulty hiring similar positions. People have applied but few meet the qualifications, Mayor Leo Lutz said. There have been discussions about internal candidates or promotions from within, he said.

Quotable: “We are aware of the importance of filling these positions and we are working very hard,” Fisher said. “No one is being lax in their duties as far as making sure those positions are filled and filled as soon as possible with candidates who will be just perfect for our borough.”

Rental ordinance: Council is considering a comprehensive new ordinance aimed at regulating rental properties to protect tenants from unsafe and substandard living conditions and strengthen enforcement against landlords who repeatedly violate housing codes.

Key points: According to a draft ordinance, it would set up stricter rules for licensing, periodic inspections, and penalties for repeat or severe violations. Landlords who fail to maintain properties or correct violations could have their rental licenses suspended or revoked. Tenants would be protected from retaliation for reporting problems.

Next steps: Since this was a first look at the ordinance, council will consider revisions to the draft, Zink said. It will not be scheduled for a vote until the ordinance is finalized.

What’s next: Council will meet again at 7 p.m. Aug. 12.