Port Orange City Manager Tenders Resignation

Port Orange, FL – Port Orange City Manager Michael “Jake” Johansson, who has been in that position for the last five years and with the city since 2011, will have his final day on December 11. Johansson tendered his resignation after a 26-day leave of absence. Per Mr. Johansson’s resignation letter, “After many hours of thought as well as discussions with family and friends, I have decided to resign as the City Manager of Port Orange to concentrate on my family, my health and explore new opportunities.  My current situation precludes me from devoting the time necessary to adequately concentrate on the city in the manner that is enough to meet the needs of our citizens and at the level that you and I both expect.”  A leave of absence for Johansson was announced by Mayor Don Burnette in September. The leave of absence was from October 5-31. While Johansson was out, Administrative Services Director, Jamie Miller, filled in as Acting City Manager. A City Council Special Meeting is called for next Tuesday, November 10, at 6 p.m., to discuss who will serve as Interim City Manager. Mayor Burnette, on behalf of the City Council, expressed gratitude for Mr. Johansson’s service, stating, “Over the last five years, Jake’s leadership and dedication to our city has positioned us once again as the premier community in all Volusia. We are beyond grateful for both his service to our city, as well as our country prior to that. He’s been a true friend to us all and he’ll be greatly missed.” District Two Council Person Chase Tramont said he has mixed emotions about Johansson leaving. "The mixed emotion is the fact that he’s been a terrific asset to the city while at the same time, I understand exactly what he’s doing and why he’s doing this. If I were in his position, I would want to do the same thing, to take care of my family." The downside, according to Tramont, is that the Council has to deal with the consequences of losing, in my opinion, is probably the best city manager in the state of Florida. "The good news is, I believe we have very capable people that are on staff right now too, at the very least, get us through this time period. Jaime Miller has done a terrific job during Jake’s absence but Alan Rosen, also, is fully capable as well."