Four years after running unsuccessfully for Mt. Lebanon treasurer, Joseph Senko now has the post on an interim basis.

Mt. Lebanon commissioners Monday appointed him to fill the position held by John C. Ferguson Jr., who died Oct. 7 at age 75. Mr. Ferguson had served as municipal treasurer for 28 years.

Mr. Senko, 78, of Thornberry Circle is a partner with McKeever Varga & Senko certified public accountants, which has its office on Cochran Road. He will be interim treasurer until Jan. 6.

Four Mt. Lebanon residents submitted letters and resumes for the position of treasurer, which is responsible for collecting municipal taxes and signing checks for the disbursement of municipal funds.

Commissioner David Brumfield nominated Mr. Senko for the appointment, citing his professional experience and the exposure of his qualifications to the public during the 2009 election.

Mr. Senko is honorary consul of the Slovak Republic for Pennsylvania and founder of the nonprofit Western Pennsylvania Slovak Cultural Association. In February, he was presented with the Medal of the President of the Slovak Republic.

Mr. Ferguson's name remains on the ballot, unopposed, in Tuesday's election. If he is re-elected, commissioners would appoint a treasurer for two years, starting in January.

Commissioners proclaimed Monday of this week as John C. Ferguson Jr. Day, recognizing him as an "example of exemplary community service."

Harry Funk, freelance writer: suburbanliving@post-gazette.com.

First Published: October 31, 2013, 10:07 a.m.