Robert Whritenour, who has served as interim town administrator in Oak Bluffs since September, has been permanently appointed to the position by the town selectmen.

At a meeting Tuesday Mr. Whritenour earned glowing praise from the selectmen, who voted unanimously to appoint him. After the vote, the selectmen and an audience of about 10 people applauded.

Mr. Whritenour was chosen from a pool of 31 applicants, with four candidates going through the final interview round.

“I think going through the process highlighted what made him stand out, what’s made him a great interim administrator,” said selectman Michael Santoro. Other selectmen said that although the other candidates were impressive, Mr. Whritenour’s experience and financial expertise stood out.

In brief remarks after the vote, Mr. Whritenour praised the selectmen and said town residents have much to be proud of. “Oak Bluffs is just a tremendously charming town, it’s a beautiful town,” he said. “I see nothing but an upside, so I’m very enthusiastic about it too.”

“Hallelujah,” selectman and board chairman Kathy Burton declared after the vote.