The City of Texarkana, Texas has selected a new City Manager.

The city council unanimously voted to enter into an employment contract with John Whitson, 62.

He was one of two finalists named in October.

Whitson has more than 20 years of experience as a town manager in North Carolina and served in the military prior that that for 24 years.

He was also a Lieutenant Colonel at Red River Army Depot in the mid-to-late eighties.

Whitson will officially take office in January, with an annual salary of $146,500.

City Manager Larry Sullivan retired in August after five years in the position.

The City's Finance Director Charlie Bassett has been serving as Interim City Manager.