Troy City Manager Says Florida Job Would Offer New Challenges

Troy City Manager John Szerlag has not officially accepted a job offer from the city of Cape Coral, FL, but said the move would offer a new experience and new challenges for his career.

Szerlag visited Cape Coral last Thursday and Friday for interviews and on Monday the Cape Coral City Council with him for a city manager position.

"I think there is a challenge that awaits me and I want to help the city of Cape Coral,"  said Szerlag, adding that he wants to help the the town achieve economic sustainability. "I see a culture of professionalism there."

Szerlag was among five candidates who interviewed for the position in Cape Coral last week. As a professional, Szerlag said it's important to keep your options open and Cape Coral is a desirable place to live.

"I was honored that they would have confidence in me to manage their city," Szerlag said. "The weather is great there and I have a grandson there."

Szerlag was first hired in Troy in 1989 as an assistant city manager. The city promoted him to city manager in 1999. In 2006, Szerlag left Troy for a city manager position in Florida but returned in 2009.

Mayor Pro-Tem Maureen McGinnis said if Szerlag takes the job, it would be a big loss for the city of Troy.

"I guess I can't stress enough how sad it would be... to lose him because he’s done such a wonderful job," McGinnis said. "I think he’s done great things for the city of Troy.”

Szerlag said he is still in contract negotiations with Cape Coral but expects to make a final decision soon.