The Newton County Board of Commissioners (BOC) voted Tuesday night to approve the hiring of a new fire chief.

Michael Conner, who retired from the Rockdale County Fire Department in 2012 after nearly 33 years of service, was confirmed by the BOC during its regularly scheduled meeting.

According to his resume’, Conner started with Rockdale County in 1979. During his tenure there he held a number of positions, including serving as a battalion chief and chief of training. He also served as the department’s interim chief for a period of time in 2009.

Conner assumes the position that came open when former chief Jeff Monroe resigned abruptly Feb. 6 after less than a year on the job.

County Manager Lloyd Kerr said that Conner’s first day will be Monday, April 10.