The longtime executive director of the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority has been placed on administrative leave as an internal investigation involving him and two other staffers begins.

The authority is responsible for sewage treatment for 20 municipalities and for bringing new businesses to the area.

News of the investigation went public Monday, but the reason was not. 6 News talked with the chairman of the board Tuesday to get a better understanding as to why the decision was made.

"We've heard a lot of rumors and gossip and a lot of things that were supposedly going on," said Monsignor Raymond Balta, chairman of the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority. "We thought that for the best interest of everyone that there would be an administrative leave."

Balta confirmed Tuesday the leave of three employees, including long time executive director Ronald Repak, an administrative assistant and the board secretary. But Balta couldn't say why.

"There was an exec meeting held and we felt this should be done as quickly as possible," he said.

He referenced an ongoing investigation but said he couldn't comment on the reason. He did say all three will continue to get paid.

"These individuals still receive their salaries and benefits and everything,but until we can really sort out what the facts are and what exactly is happening and what's going on, we thought this was the most prudent thing to do," said Balta.

The three work for the redevelopment authority and have no connection to the city other than the fact they work in an office in the public safety building downtown which is owned by the city.

Sources have told 6 News an email was distributed Monday notifying city employees not to let Repak or the two others inside.

In the meantime, Balta said Frank D’Ettorre will serve as acting director for the authority until, he said, "all of this is sorted out and we know more as to what the facts are."

6 News spoke with Repak on the phone Tuesday afternoon. He said he couldn't say much except that he has no idea what's going on and was never given a reason. He said he formally notified by the authority on Monday, but said he found out Sunday night when a reporter called him at home.

As for when the investigation could wrap up, Balta said he didn't have a time frame, only that's it's been ongoing for a while.