Lewes set to hire new city manager

The City of Lewes appears to have found its next city manager. 

Mayor Ted Becker confirmed Ann Marie Townshend has accepted the position, though the hire will not become official until next week, as the final details are still being ironed out. 

Townshend is currently the director of planning and community development for the City of Dover. She has notified city officials of her resignation, but will work through the end of the month.

“I am very excited to work for the City of Lewes,” Townshend said. “I have been wanting to move into city management, and I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as city manager for Lewes. It is such a special place, with so much history and charm.”

Townshend will replace Paul Eckrich, who announced his retirement earlier this year. Eckrich, who has been with the city for eight years, will remain with the city through the end of the budget process. Mayor and city council will vote on the budget at a special meeting at 6:30 p.m., Monday, March 20.