Palmerton Borough Council has decided who will manage the borough after its current manager retires in April, and it is promoting from within its own ranks.

After about 34 years of working within borough, Donna McGarry will be taking over the position of borough manager on or before April 26, council determined unanimously at its meeting Thursday. McGarry currently serves as treasurer and assistant secretary.

“I’m excited,” McGarry said. “I’ve been here a long time. It’s a good town.”

McGarry started working for the borough as a clerk in 1978. She’s been employed there on and off, taking time over the years to explore different career paths and to raise her family.

McGarry said that the culmination of experience and knowledge she’s gained since starting at the borough more than 30 years ago is something that motivated her to take up the mantle of manager.

“I felt as though it would be a good way for the borough to transition,” McGarry said. “Because I’ve been here a long time, it would be something that would benefit the borough.”

The search for a new borough manager began late last year after Rodger Danielson, who spent more than two decades in the position, announced his retirement. Council approved McGarry’s appointment following an executive session held during Thursday’s meeting.

Over the next few weeks, McGarry will begin familiarizing herself with everyday borough operations, but she said she’s not afraid of the challenge.

“I know I have really good people,” McGarry said. “That helped me make my decision too, knowing that I had that support.”

McGarry will maintain her role as treasurer. Council plans to advertise a new position, of secretary, for 25 to 30 hours a week.