ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Ithaca City Manager Deb Mohlenhoff is leaving.

The Common Council accepted her resignation last night, which takes effect on Dec. 31. Mayor Robert Cantelmo says she made a big impact in the city.

While no reason was given for Mohlenhoff’s resignation last night, the city says it came at the Common Council’s request. Mayor Cantelmo noted her commitment to the city.

Mohlenhoff was not in attendance for the Common Council meeting but said in a statement released by the city that her time as city manager was an ‘honor.’

“I have tendered my resignation in accordance with the Council’s decision. It has been my honor to serve as Ithaca’s first city manager and to work alongside the extraordinary City staff whose unwavering commitment to public service has meant more to me than I can express.” Mohlenhoff said. “While this departure was not at my initiative, I respect the Council’s authority to select a city manager whose approach more closely aligns with their goals.” 

After Ithacans voted to change the structure of city government, Mohlenhoff was selected as Ithaca’s first city manager in late 2023 and stepped into the role in Jan. 2024. Deputy City Manager Dominick Recckio will become the acting city manager on Jan. 1, 2026.