SCRANTON, Pa. — The Lackawanna County commissioners appointed a longtime staffer for U.S. Sen. Bob Casey as director of its economic development office.
Kristin A. Magnotta, of Scranton, will start her new job by next week at the latest, county spokesman Pat McKenna said. She replaces former economic development director Brenda Sacco, who left earlier this year.
"Public service is something of great importance to me," Magnotta said.
As economic development director, Magnotta will be responsible for business development, transportation infrastructure development and grant management, McKenna said. She will receive a yearly salary of $84,050.
Magnotta spent nearly three years working for the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and more than a decade working with Casey and former Gov. Tom Wolf, according to her resume. She also represented the NEPIRC manufacturing trade association.
However, much of her time was spent in Casey's office.
While working with Casey — first as northeast regional director and then as outreach director — most of Magnotta's responsibilities centered on economic development, she said.
"Kristin's knowledge of the northeast region, her impactful relationships with state and federal agencies and her robust experience in economic development from being a former member of Senator Casey's staff makes her someone who, we believe, can help attract, sustain and grown businesses and develop a business-friendly regional reputation," Commissioner Matt McGloin said.
Magnotta said hopes to use her knowledge of the federal landscape for the county's benefit.
In a statement, Commissioner Bill Gaughan touted her experience doing "broad strategic marketing and detailed grant-writing."
"She will be a powerful asset in our economic development efforts," Gaughan said.
