Harrisburg council approves new engagement director after heated debate
The position carries a salary range of $78,000 to $124,000 and replaces direct annual funding to the Chamber of Commerce.
By Alina Marshall ·
Harrisburg City Council voted 3-0 last week to create a new role for a Director of Community and Business Engagement. The decision followed a contentious public comment period where residents questioned the transparency of the hiring process and the salary structure.
City Administrator Amanda Mack described the position as a hybrid role that integrates the current executive director function of the Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce into the city government. Under the new arrangement, the city would provide benefits and support staff for the role while maintaining separate finances and boards for the Chamber. The city would enter a services agreement with the Chamber for the executive director work.
The proposed salary range for the new position is between $78,000 and $124,000 annually. A memo attached to the council agenda stated that the position would be funded by money the city historically gave to the Chamber, which amounted to $68,000 to $73,000 per year, along with a portion of the city’s third-penny tax revenue.
Chamber Chairman Jared Langenstein supported the move, stating it allows the Chamber board to maintain oversight of the executive director while increasing collaboration between the two entities. He described the arrangement as an opportunity for both organizations to work more closely together.
Resident Stuart Oster criticized the lack of clear communication regarding the six-figure salary. He noted the existing compensation for City Administrator Amanda Mack, which is $241,000, and Deputy City Administrator Heath Voneye, which is $212,000. Oster argued that adding another high-paying position without detailed transparency would be difficult for the public to accept.
Alderman Chris Kindt countered that the city has paid the Chamber director for years and that the new structure does not create a significant new cost. He expressed frustration that some members of the public did not read the full job description and compensation details included in the agenda attachments. Kindt noted that professional salaries are public knowledge and that residents should review all documents before commenting.
Alderman Pete Wodzinski emphasized that residents have a responsibility to stay engaged in local government. He stated that the city posts funding information online as required by law and encourages residents to contact city hall for details. Wodzinski argued that clear communication helps the city and the council appear more trustworthy.
Mack sought to defuse the tension by asking how the city could improve its communication. She acknowledged that the city strives to be transparent but admitted they are human and may miss the mark. The council approved the position after more than 30 minutes of discussion, with Alderman Kevin Larson absent from the vote.
