Greencastle government leadership changes hands

Borough manager Kenneth Womack and assistant manager Susan Armstrong flipped roles Monday night. Greencastle borough council approved the resignation of Womack effective Dec. 3, and appointed Armstrong in his place. They then appointed Womack as assistant through the end of the month.

The vote for the changes found one "polite no" from Harry Foley. While Womack came into his position promising to stay only five years, the board was surprised how fast the time went. Foley, Wade Burkholder, Frank Webster Jr., Charles Eckstine, James Farley, Matt Smith, and mayor Bob Eberly gave accolades for his service.

Eckstine especially appreciated Womack's ability to get along with people, a true mark of leadership. Foley noted that he came along when "Greencastle was in dire straights. You are a master at what you do."

Eberly concurred. "Ken came during tough times. Your work has been noticed and appreciated."

The panel also welcomed Armstrong to her new role. She was excited for the opportunity and agreed with the many people who had told her she had big shoes to fill.

"He's a true professional," she said. "I'm so impressed with what he's been able to accomplish. He's making a good exit. He did a fabulous job."

Womack said the sentiments were probably overstated. In his resignation letter he said that borough staff, council and citizens had worked together to make significant improvements in infrastructure, improve services while keeping costs in check, and better the relationship between local government and residents.

"I am very proud to have been part of that process."

He expected a seamless transition with Armstrong. Coming off a military career, with many moves, he said Greencastle would always be one of his homes.

During the past five years, under Womack's tenure, major improvements occurred on Allison and Madison streets, the Route 16/US 11 intersection, and at the wastewater treatment plant and pumping stations. Plans have been developed for Franklin Street.

— By PAT FRIDGEN, Echo Pilot