Columbia Borough Council hires experienced finance manager as municipalities struggle to find talent | Community News

When: Columbia Borough Council meeting, Aug. 26.

What happened: Council voted to hire Brian Christensen as finance manager at a salary of up to $75,000 per year.

Background: The position has been vacant since May following the termination of the former finance manager. The borough has struggled to fill vacancies like this and the borough manager position. Generating interest in municipal management positions is a challenge and few applicants are qualified, President Heather Zink said during the Aug. 12 council meeting.

Resume: Christensen brings more than 20 years of experience in financial management, accounting and process improvement, with a resume that includes supervisory and analyst roles at Keystone Trailer Services, Harley-Davidson, SAIC and RR Donnelley. He holds an MBA from Gannon University and a bachelor’s degree from West Virginia University.

Why it’s important: The finance manager helps ensure financial operations run smoothly and comply with all applicable laws and policies. In addition to overseeing budgeting, payroll, accounting and financial reporting, the position serves as assistant borough secretary, treasurer and pension administrator. They are responsible for managing complex financial interactions with auditors, grant agencies, banks and elected officials.

Back-to-school: Mayor Leo Lutz reminded residents that school is in session. He encouraged all drivers to be cautious on the roads and look out for children walking to and from school, or waiting for buses. He commended borough police for emphasizing and enforcing traffic laws.

Zoning changes: Council unanimously adopted an ordinance which updates the definitions, permitted uses and building requirements across nonresidential districts. The ordinance introduces new definitions for uses like data centers, smoke shops and tattoo parlors. It also adjusts building height and setback rules in the light business district and revises which uses are allowed in various commercial and industrial zones.

What it means: These changes aim to modernize Columbia’s zoning regulations to better support compatible commercial and industrial growth while protecting the character and quality of life in residential neighborhoods. Property owners and developers will have clearer standards for emerging uses, and new height and setback provisions will reduce negative impacts of larger buildings on neighboring homes.

What’s next: Council will meet for a workshop at 7 p.m. Sept. 2.