Lower Paxton approves 18-month contract for township manager, sets salary at $210,000

The Lower Paxton Township Board of Supervisors voted June 9 to approve an employment agreement for Township Manager Mike Gossard, setting his base pay at $210,000 retroactive to March 1, 2026, and establishing a six-month severance payment if the board terminates him without cause.

Solicitor Mr. Stenant summarized the contract during new-business discussion, noting that under the Second Class Township Code a manager remains an at-will employee and that the contract's term cannot extend beyond the reorganization following the next municipal election (the contract is therefore limited through January 2028). Stenant said the agreement covers the manager's duties (in conformance with section 44-8 of the township code), benefits, a township vehicle for business use, health insurance consistent with employee coverage, and payout of unused leave on separation. He told the board the compensation in the agreement is $210,000 and that a six-month severance is included for termination without cause.

Supervisors praised Gossard's work and spoke about retention and continuity; Supervisor Lindsay said the township is growing and described recent staff improvements. Supervisor Thompson expressed opposition to offering the contract, saying she was "not in favor" because she has filed recent HR complaints against the manager; the chair cautioned that those details were personnel matters and not for public discussion. Public commenters praised Gossard's professionalism and suggested creating an assistant township manager to handle growth and economic development.

The board approved the contract by roll-call vote. Supervisor Thompson voted "nay." Other voting members indicated "aye," and the motion carried.