Andy Close
WARREN, Pa. – Mike Holtz has been approved as Warren’s next city manager. ”
The decision was made at Monday’s Warren City Council meeting and approved by a 6-1 vote.
“It’s great,” Holtz said. “I appreciate the opportunity. Council has shown a lot of faith in me and I think we’re going to continue to do good work.”
Holtz replaces Nancy Freenock, who served in the position from August 2012 until October 2022. Holtz had been serving in the role since October on an interim basis.
“Mike is the best person for the job,” said City of Warren Mayor Dave Wortman. “The fact that he is a lifelong resident of Warren and has a vested interest in our city is a huge plus. He has my complete trust and confidence that he will do a terrific job in leading the city of Warren and leading us to greater things.”
Holtz has worked for the City of Warren for a number of years as the Director of Public Works.
“I was born and raised in the city of Warren and known of Mike Holtz for a long time, even before I knew him personally,” said councilwoman Danielle Flasher. “I think that he will keep us on the right track. I look forward to working with Mike. He is the best person for this position and will do a great job.”
The one vote in the negative was by councilmember Wendy McCain, who didn’t question, Holtz, but rather the process involved with the search.
McCain, along with councilman Maurice Cashman and Mayor Wortman were all part of the city manager search committee.
“I was not included in the negotiation process,” McCain said. “I think we rushed through the contract negotiations. My vote is not a reflection of the candidate, but a matter of standing on principle.”
City Solicitor Andrea Stapleford responded in the affirmative when asked if the process had followed proper legislative protocol.
“It might comply with the letter of the law, but I don’t feel it was the right way to bypass part of the process,” McCain said.
