Whispering Pines' first-ever village manager has reported for duty.

Steve DeBolt's arrival Monday marked the completion of a lengthy process by the Village Council to switch to a manager-driven government and to find the right person to fill the new position.

DeBolt's hiring was announced by Mayor Bob Zschoche at the July 10 regular council meeting. The revisions to the village charter allowing for the change in government followed two weeks later at the July 23 meeting.

DeBolt said Wednesday that he is getting settled and working his way through transition process, which is uncharted territory for a village that has never had a manager before. He said that everyone has been helpful in getting him acclimated to the new position.

"Obviously, its a transition that's new for the council, the committee members, residents and myself," DeBolt said. "We're trying to work through it together. I'm excited about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."

For more on the story, see Friday's print edition of The Pilot.