At the Board of Supervisors Meeting on Thursday, July 18, Anthony Hamaday was sworn in as our new Township Manager. Join us in welcoming Tony to our township, and read on to get to know him a little more.
What’s your background in government?
I have spent my whole working career in municipal government. After college, I answered an ad in the newspaper for municipal government management to find out that it was an entry-level position in that township’s Building and Zoning Department. I loved it! During the last 30 years, I have been fortunate to advance through various positions and departments in the municipalities that I have worked. I have been a Township Manager now for over 17 years.
What do you like most about being a township manager?
Aside from the normal routine responsibilities, it’s the satisfaction of making a difference – whether it’s helping a resident with an issue, working closely with my staff to improve township operations and service, or with the Board of Supervisors to continue to make Upper Merion the place to be!
You’ve lived in the Upper Merion area all your life. What is your favorite thing about Upper Merion?
It’s a question I can’t answer because there are so many things that make the Upper Merion special for me. I have had the opportunity to watch the township evolve and it keeps getting better, so my “favorites list” keeps getting bigger. There is so much that the township has to offer to residents of all ages. It’s incredible. If you twisted my arm and forced me to answer, I can only tell you that UM is the place my wife and I decided to call home and raise a family!
Where is your favorite place to spend time with your family in Upper Merion?
To be honest, right here at home in our own piece of the township!
What made you want to get involved with municipal government and/or Upper Merion Township?
It was an accident! I wasn’t looking at a government career but during my senior year in college, I signed up for a political science summer internship and was placed with a local municipality and was hooked. Looking back, there is nothing I would rather do for a living. As for Upper Merion, I can tell you in government circles, Upper Merion has always had a reputation as a leader in government services and new technology. You would be surprised at how many other municipalities look to see what Upper Merion is doing. So, when the opportunity presented itself, I wanted to be able to give back to the community by using my government experience and help the Board provide the best service we can to our residents.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in government?
Go for it. It can be one of the most fulfilling things you will do. Most people don’t realize the wide range of different jobs or opportunities that exist in government. I have had the opportunity to talk to high school students during career day and most know about police officers or public works positions but are shocked to find out that government offers a broad range of career choices.
What do you want residents to know about you and your new role?
I love a good story and my door is always open, so feel free to stop by and give me your best (just be warned I also love to tell a good story)!
What are three words you’d use to describe Upper Merion?
Happening, Diverse, Home
What does true leadership mean to you?
For me, leadership has many components. From rolling up my sleeves and leading the charge, providing inspiration to my co-workers, and creating a culture where we all work toward a common goal. In this case, making Upper Merion the best it can be.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
I love to read and bike ride.
What are some fun facts you could share with us so we can get to know you better?
I love traditional country music and old black and white movies. In the last year and a half, I have also done four cross country road trips visiting 43 of the 50 states.
What are you passionate about?
Reading. There isn’t a historical fiction novel I won’t read.
What inspires you?
My kids and how fearless they are in achieving their dreams.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
Family. The library is second on my list.