Following a surprising resignation, Towamensing Township's board of supervisors selected and swore in a new fire chief at Thursday's meeting.

The board approved the resignation of Towamensing Volunteer Fire Company's fire chief, Jeremy Haydt, though Haydt had resigned through a letter dated April 17, stating that the decision was effective immediately.Haydt provided no explanation for his departure in his letter."He suddenly resigned, and he didn't say why, so I cannot presume anything," Chairwoman Penny Kleintop said. "We thank him and wish him well."Firefighter Robert O'Donnell will take the helm as chief for the remainder of Haydt's term, which is up in December."He's going to do a fantastic job. We're very pleased," Kleintop said.O'Donnell assumes the role with over 20 years of experience, having served as chief at several other departments, including Citizen's Fire Company and Lehigh and Lausanne Rural Volunteer Fire Company in Weatherly.Following a ceremony where he was sworn in by Kleintop, with his wife Terri holding the Bible, O'Donnell helped dole out a congratulatory cake to the crowd.O'Donnell said he looks forward to a successful and productive term in his new role as chief of Towamensing's fire company."It's no different than the last time I was fire chief," he said. "I'm looking forward to keep things moving on a positive note, getting stuff taken care of that needs to be taken care of."The fire company brought out its newly acquired 2007 heavy rescue truck for the board of supervisors to examine after the meeting. The truck was purchased from a fire company in Alabama, with help in the form of a 10-year loan from the board of supervisors to cover the $226,500 cost.Outside of a few minor adjustments, the newly lettered vehicle is just about ready for service.O'Donnell and Assistant Chief Ryan Snyder said that the department will be applying for grants in the fall to acquire a Cascade breathing air system for the truck.The Towamensing Volunteer Fire Company will be hosting a spaghetti dinner from 4 to 7 p.m. on May 13. The all-you-can-eat supper will include spaghetti, meatballs, garlic bread, salad, coffee, tea, and dessert.The fire company will also be hosting a craft fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 20. Over 20 vendors will be in attendance, and food will be available.Check the Towamensing Volunteer Fire Company's Facebook page for more information and events.