The executive director for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the County of Butler is on administrative leave for undisclosed personnel reasons.

Perry O'Malley, who has been with the authority for nearly two decades, was put on leave Jan. 15, according to authority solicitor Andrew Menchyk.

Menchyk said the decision concerns personnel matters in the authority, but he declined to comment specifically on why O'Malley was put on leave.

“The length of the leave is undetermined,” Menchyk said. “However, the board does anticipate his return.”

Menchyk would not say who made the decision for O'Malley to go on leave or whether he will continue to be paid during the time.

O'Malley could not be reached for comment.

Authority board Chairwoman Margaret Clawson said the decision was not made at a board meeting, but declined to comment further.

Attorney John Trant is serving as the interim executive director in O'Malley's absence. Trant declined to comment.

“He has a substantial background in government,” Menchyk said of Trant, adding that Trant had worked for Cranberry Township in the past.

The board last met Jan. 9. Menchyk said the personnel matters were not discussed at the meeting, but said there was an executive session following the meeting.

The authority oversees more than 600 housing units for low to moderate income individuals and the elderly.