Falls Township Naming New Manager. So Who Gets The Gig?

FALLS TOWNSHIP, PA — The Falls Township Board of Supervisors is preparing to welcome a new face to the helm.

Supervisors plan to hire a new township manager at their meeting on Monday night.

After an extensive search, supervisors plan on appointing John M. Shepherd to lead the township.

Shepherd will earn a salary of $195,000 per year, officials said.

Shepherd, a township manager of more than 25 years, will replace Township Manager Matthew Takita.

Takita, who has also served since his hiring in 2019 as chief code enforcement officer and zoning office, will focus his attention on code and zoning matters.

“As we anticipate continued development at the Keystone Trade Center, the board thought it would be better for Mr. Takita to work solely on code and zoning issues,” Supervisor Chairman Jeff Dence said. “We look forward to welcoming Mr. Shepherd to our community and know that his vast municipal government experience will serve our township and our residents well.”

Takita previously worked for 24 years at the Bensalem Township’s building and planning department before beginning his work in Falls Township.

Shepherd has served as the manager of Roxbury Township, N.J. since 2017. He previously served in other township manager and assistant township manager roles.

A resident of Ledgewood, N.J., Shepherd is slated to begin his role with Falls Township within 60 days. He has 180 days from his start date to relocate within 20 miles of Falls Township.

“My management style is team-oriented with attention to vision and detail,” Shepherd said. “Rather than micro-managing, my style is to foster a high-achieving management team which provides the framework for exceptional service delivery.”