Ferry Street Resource Center in Niles has hired Niles native Tim Batton as its interim director, replacing former director Lisa Busby, who resigned earlier this month.

Batton played a large role in creating the Ferry Street Resource Center some six years ago while serving as director of the Greater Niles Community Development Corp.

He said he contacted Ferry Street Resource Center soon after learning of Busby’s resignation.

“I am excited to be back involved to ensure the sustainability of the organization moving forward,” said Batton, who will serve as interim director for at least two months while the board of directors searches for a permanent director.

Batton was recently director of Woodland Terrace in Niles.

Lois Washington, Ferry Street board member, said the center received three applicants for the open director position.

“Mr. Batton’s resume stood out better than any of them,” she said.

Three people associated with Ferry Street Resource Center have resigned in the last month. Busby, who served as the center’s director since 2005, resigned Sept. 10. Diane Bass, board president, resigned Sept. 17 and board member Jeanette Pearson resigned about a month ago, according to Washington.

Volunteers were running the nonprofit organization in the time between Busby’s resignation and the hiring of Batton. Busby, Bass and Pearson did not indicate a reason for their resignations, Batton said.

“There is not a lot of things we can say about Lisa’s tenure, but I will say that the organization is strong and services are still being provided and that we are working on sustainability for the future,” Batton said. “I don’t think there is any reason for anybody to be concerned.”

Batton said he would be reassessing the center’s services and programs in the coming months to make sure they are still meeting the vision of the board. He also said he would assist in the selection of a permanent director.

The Ferry Street Resource Center, 620 Ferry St., is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and is closed Fridays.