After more than a month without an appointed mayor, the City of Newton took a step forward tonight with the swearing in of 2nd Ward councilman Michael Hansen as mayor during tonight's City Council meeting.

Hansen was the lone applicant for the position, which was decided by City Council appointment, and had served as Newton's mayor pro tem following Chaz Allen's resignment in September. In being officially sworn in as mayor, Hansen forfeited his seat on the city council, leaving a 2nd Ward seat vacant.

Following Hansen's formal appointment, the council outlined the timeline for filling Hansen's vacant seat. According to a calendar compiled by City Attorney Darrin Hamilton, the seat could be filled as early as Nov. 30, but no later than Dec. 15. Parties interested in vying for the seat will be invited to submit letters of interest thoughout the week of Nov. 25.