After a year's absence, Westport Monday evening hired a new town planner, the first to serve here since the departure of now-town administrator James Hartnett.

Michael Burris, who works in the planning and zoning departments in Franklin County, Ohio, was chosen by a unanimous vote of the Westport Select Board Monday evening, at the recommendation of planning board chairman James Whitin.

Whitin said one of the board's main priorities over the past year has been to hire a new full-time planner. The board's most recent search drew seven applicants, and Burris was one of two interviewed for the post.

"I think he would be a great addition," said Whitin, who said it's the board's intention to have Burris start on Monday, Oct. 3.

Though Burris has no experience in Westport, Whitin said his work on water and sewer issues in Franklin County, could pay dividends here, as the town is facing many similar issues. Burris previously worked in planning in "small-town Vermont," Whitin said.

"It sounds like he could be very helpful to us," Whitin said. "This is a long time coming for us."

The position will pay $90,000 per year, Whitin said, and voters approved funds for the position at this year's Financial Town Meeting.