HUNTER SMITH/THE EXPRESS Louis Anastos, newly named CEO of the Clinton County Economic Partnership, speaks at the partnership’s annual Legislative Luncheon on Thursday, where his appointment was announced.

LOCK HAVEN — Just months after hiring a CEO to replace the late Mike Flanagan, the Clinton County Economic Partnership announced Thursday afternoon at its Legislative Luncheon that longtime business owner Louis Anastos will take the reins.

Anastos replaces Jason Fitzgerald, who was appointed to the position by the partnership’s board of directors in August 2025. It was unclear when Fitzgerald left the role.

According to CCEP Board Chairman Dave Harger, who announced Anastos’ appointment, Fitzgerald has returned to his former position at Penn Strategies, a grant-writing and appropriations firm, but will continue working with the partnership on outstanding grants.

“It’s been kind of a chaotic ride since Mike’s (Flanagan) passing,” Harger said. “But we’re looking up, there’s some really good things coming.”

With more than 10 years on the board and prior service as chairman, Anastos “knows the ins and outs,” Harger said, calling him a clear choice.

In remarks following the announcement, Anastos said, “I’m a Main Street guy,” explaining his family has been tied to local downtown businesses for more than four decades.

A lifelong resident of Lock Haven, Anastos currently owns and operates Stella A’s Bar and Grill on Main Street, and previously operated Anastos Brothers Auto Sales.

Prior to his appointment, Anastos served as vice chair of the CCEP board and currently serves on the Kiwanis Club of Lock Haven’s board of directors.

“Our commitment has been to the downtown and the community for a long time,” he said. “I love the community and I’m here to help.”

He said the partnership has struggled since Flanagan’s death in 2024 and expressed hope of getting it “back where we want it.”

“What I’d like to see is we all get creative and come up with great ideas for this community,” said Anastos.

He said he also hopes to develop relationships with all of the partnership’s member organizations.

“I have some projects in mind, and down the road, we’ll share those all with you,” Anastos said.

U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-15), who attended the luncheon, wished Anastos well in the role and voiced confidence in the partnership’s direction.

“I know the group at the helm of this partnership will continue to ensure Clinton County remains a place people love to live and to work,” Thompson said. “Special thanks to Louis for stepping into the gap. It’s much appreciated. With your experience and your knowledge, there are even greater times ahead here.”