City Manager Mike Mallinoff—who was a finalist for the Gaithersburg City Manager position—will remain in Annapolis.

Gaithersburg announced Thursday that after five months of searching, the city decided to promote Tony Tomasello, its deputy city manager, to the position.

"I was honored to be asked to be one the three finalist for the position; however, I am quite content to stay in Annapolis where I have deep roots," Mallinoff said. "It is important note that during the selection process, I was never certain about leaving my position with the City of Annapolis."

Mallinoff said he thinks Gaithersburg made the right choice in promoting Tomasello, who is a long time employee and member of their community.

Tomasello has served as Acting City Manager for Gaithersburg since the June 15 resignation of its former City Manager Angel Jones. Tomasello was hired as the city's economic development director in 1996 and has served as deputy city manager since 2001.

For Mallinoff, it's back to work in Annapolis.

He said, "I am confident that I have been, and will continue to be, an asset to the mayor and City Council and this beautiful community."