The Newtown Township Board of Supervisors on Wednesday unanimously approved hiring Kurt Ferguson as the new township manager.

Ferguson will replace Joe Czajkowski, who resigned April 1 to accept a position as manager for Lower Salford Township in Montgomery County.

Ferguson is currently the township manager for Hempfield Township in Westmoreland County. He has previously served as the Mt. Lebanon economic development officer and manager of Edgewood Borough, which is just outside of Pittsburgh.

According to board chairman Mike Gallagher, Ferguson has several areas of expertise that will be an asset to the township.  His background in financial matters, land development, economic development and recreation management will be a great benefit to the township, Gallagher said.

“He really went above and beyond the credentials that we need in a township manager,” Gallagher said.

Ferguson will start his new post by July 2. His annual salary will be $117,500. At the time he left, Czajkowski was making $123,000 per year.

The decision to hire Ferguson was unanimous among board members.

Board member Matt Benchener said the supervisors went through dozens of resumes and interviewed multiple candidates. “I think we’re all really excited about Mr. Ferguson joining us.”

Board member Ryan Gallagher said he was impressed with the slate of applicants but Ferguson stood out as a candidate. “I’m very excited for him to come on board. I think he’s going to be a wonderful asset to Newtown.”