Ferguson Township Appoints New Manager

Ferguson Township has selected its next manager following a five-month search process.

The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday approved Warren K. Obenski as the township’s new top administrator, effective May 26. Obenski succeeds Centrice Martin, who stepped down from the position after four years at the end of her contract in January.

Obenski, who has been the manager of Honey Brook Township in Chester County since 2021, was selected after what Board Chair Jeremie Thompson called a “comprehensive and deliberate recruitment process.” The township partnered with MGT Impact Solutions for a national recruitment that yielded 48 resumes from 18 states, including 22 from Pennsylvania, and included input from staff, Centre Region officials and residents.

“I look forward to starting,” Obenski, a Penn State alumnus, told the board during brief remarks on Tuesday. “I have an open door policy … When I’m here in a few weeks, stop by, talk with me, spend some time with me. I’ll be happy to give you as much time as everyone needs.”

His initial contract is for three years at an annual salary of $155,000, according to a summary of the employment agreement included in Tuesday’s agenda.

As manager of Honey Brook Township, a largely rural second-class township with a population of about 8,300, Obenski has directed daily operations, managed budgets and capital planning, overseen staff and finances, secured grants and provided strategic support to the three-member Board of Supervisors.

“Warren is known for his analytical skills, integrity, and ability to resolve complex issues through clear communication and impartial decision-making,” the township wrote in a news release on Wednesday.

Prior to his time as manager, Obenski was a police officer in Uwchlan Township in Chester County from 1995 to 2021. He also held leadership positions in the watch industry, including as North America manager for Ball Watch Switzerland, according to the release.

Obenski earned a bachelor’s degree in administration of justice from Penn State in 1995 and a master of public administration in 2017. He previously volunteered as a firefighter and EMT, and is active in professional organizations including the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors, Association for Pennsylvania Municipal Managers and the International City Management Association.

“The Ferguson Township Board of Supervisors and staff are excited to begin working with Warren Obenski and welcome him to the Ferguson Township and Centre Region communities,” the township wrote in the release.

Since Martin’s departure, Tom King, the former State College police chief and assistant borough manager, has served as interim township manager.

Thompson thanked King for his leadership during the transition.

“Your steady leadership and dedicated service throughout this transitional period has ensured the continued effectiveness of the administration of township affairs,” Thompson said. We offer our sincere gratitude for your commitment and professionalism.”