After an almost five-month search, Belgrade appointed a new town manager effective Oct. 19.

Michael Carlson has spent 30 years as a certified public accountant and has five years of experience as a selectboard member in Fayette. Selectboard chair Carol Johnson announced Carlson’s hiring Tuesday.

Johnson highlighted Carlson’s familiarity with accounting, audits and regulatory compliance and his experience in municipal government in the announcement.

Carlson’s salary will be $99,500 per year, and his contract is for a three-year term.

In Fayette, Carlson has been involved in budgeting, capital planning, policy work and day-to-day municipal decision-making. Johnson said this gave him a practical understanding of what it takes to support a community effectively.

“We have every confidence that Mike’s fiscal responsibility, proven grant-writing skills and resilient leadership style will make him an excellent fit,” Johnson wrote.

Carlson and Johnson did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Town Clerk Mary Vogel, who is also the tax collector, was appointed interim town manager following the May 1 resignation of Lorna Dee Nichols.