The City of Orange Beach approved the hire of Fire Chief Michael “Shane” Phillips Friday at a special called meeting of the City Council. The vote was unanimous.

Phillips’ appointment comes after a monthlong search, which drew more 130 applications.

“He’s a great guy with great experience at a young age,” Mayor Tony Kennon said. “He’s very enthusiastic. He’ll come in and do a good job.”

The 35-year-old is currently serving as fire chief in Seneca, S.C., and will assume his duties in mid-July. He is succeeding current Orange Beach Fire Chief Forney Howard, who will officially retire at the end of July, ending a decadelong career with the city.

Howard has been employed with the Orange Beach Fire Department since 2001, serving as chief since 2004.

“(Phillips) has big shoes to fill,” Kennon said. “Forney (Howard) has been such a great chief over the last few years.”

Phillips will be the third fire chief in the department’s history. The council approved a salary of $75,000, with a $3,500 allowance for moving expenses.

“City leaders were focused on selecting the right candidate with a focus on the future of the department while maintaining the highest level of service to the residents and guests of the community,” City Administrator Ken Grimes said in an email. .