Silka Steps into New Role in Robinson Township

Robinson manager Jeff Silka said he's spent his first days at his new post becoming acquainted with the township.

Silka, 46, was hired by Robinson commissioners in March. He replaces former manager Aaron Bibro, who accepted a position in Montgomery County, PA. 

"I found the job posting (for the township manager position) and felt like Robinson would be a great opportunity," said Silka, who began work in Robinson on April 1. 

Silka resigned from his position as Monroeville manager in January after seven months in the community over a conflict with council members in the municipality. 

"Every time you enter a job, you go in with the expectation that you're going to be there for a long time," he said. 

Silka began his career in municipal government in 1995. In addition to his work in Monroeville, he has served as manager of the city of Johnstown in Cambria County, and as the executive director of the Somerset County Economic Development Council. In 1992, he obtained his master's degree in public affairs from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. 

He said he is now living in Monroeville but looks to relocate to Robinson Township. 

Silka said he plans to develop a series of goals for the municipality after a short transitional period in his role. 

"It's too early right now to really come up with any substantial goals—I'm still getting my feet wet," Silka said. "But within the first three months, after I get my hands around all of the issues in the township, I'll be creating a list of goals."