Newtown Borough Council has appointed Craig Totaro as its first borough manager and treasurer.
The move marks a significant change for the local government, which dates back to 1838 when the borough separated from Newtown Township.
In addition to his duties as borough manager, Totaro, will also hold the role of treasurer.
The new hire is set to begin his job on May 28. Newtown Patch reported he will have an annual salary of $140,000.
Totaro brings extensive experience to Newtown Borough.
He previously served as borough manager in Lansdowne Borough, Delaware County, for 16 years before the council decided not reappoint him, according to the Delaware County Daily Times. More recently, he served as borough administrator for Rutledge Borough, Delaware County.
Council President Emily Heinz at Tuesday evening’s public meeting remarked on Totaro’s readiness to tackle the challenges ahead.
“Not only is Mr. Totaro very well qualified and will bring all of his skills and expertise to the table, he’s also very excited to join us,” she said.
Council Member Julia Woldorf pointed to Totaro’s qualifications and highlighted his “excellence experience, knowledge, and skill” as key factors in his selection.
Councilor Josh Phillips said Totaro has an “impressive resume.”
Woldorf said the borough has been talking about creating a manager position since 2007.
The role of borough manager was created after borough treasurer Pat Ours left last year after many years of service.
Last August, the Newtown Borough Council greenlit the manager position, which is a new role for the municipality.
The council used the the Meyner Center, a nonprofit organization, to assist with the recruitment process.
Presently, daily municipal duties are performed by council members, the borough secretary, and other borough staff.
