MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The City of Morgantown will have an open assistant city manager position.
Glen Kelly, who had acted as interim city manager since August 12, will move closer to his Wood County home.
“I’ve accepted a position with Washington County, Ohio as their emergency management officer,” Kelly confirmed.
Kelly advised city employees of his upcoming departure Thursday.
“I’m quite pleased that one of the things they were willing to allow me to do was to continue working on the runway extension project. That was one of the key things that I needed to be able to do this transition.”
The long time assistant city manager and former interim airport director’s announcement comes just two days after new Morgantown City Manager Paul Brake started his position. Kelly said he wasted no time in communicating his plan and future interest with Brake.
“Mr. Brake is receptive to that which also helped with the decision. And, we’re trying to work out the mechanics of how that will work. But he seems quite receptive to keep me involved and keep this project moving forward.”
The runway extension project at Morgantown Municipal Airport was touted as a project that could be made possible through work with the U.S Air Force Reserve. In early planning, it was estimated working with the reserve could save Morgantown $8 million to $12 million.
A 1,001 foot extension would allow larger jets to land in Morgantown.
Kelly filled the city manager position for approximately six months after Jeff Mikorski resigned to take a position in Wisconsin.
As the interim city manager, Kelly did initially add his name to the list of potential candidates for the position. He later removed his name for consideration citing health concerns.
“I think it’s going to be much better for my health and my family. I look forward to this new challenge and being able to help shepherd along the runway extension project that I’ve invested so much of my personal time and energy into,” Kelly added.
Kelly’s last day with the City of Morgantown is Feb. 22. He expects to begin his emergency management position in early March.