VILLAS – Lower Township plans to hire a full-time deputy manager, at a salary of $80,000 to $90,000, to assist Township Manager Mike Laffey.

The Township Council introduced an ordinance Nov. 4 creating the position, and is changing the salary ordinance to set the position’s pay. Adoption is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 2.

According to the ordinance, the council determined it was “necessary and appropriate” to “expand the role and duties of the position of deputy manager” and create a full-time position within township government. Currently, the municipal clerk becomes the acting manager at municipal meetings when the manager is unavailable.

The deputy manager, the ordinance says, would be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the township manager.  The deputy manager, the ordinance says, would have to meet certain requirements, including having administrative experience, and would have to be able to perform all the duties of the manager.

A second reading and a public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 2, at 5 p.m. in Township Hall.

Contact the reporter, Christopher South, at csouth@cmcherald.com or 609-886-8600, ext. 128.