Over the weekend, a reader emailed me with these questions: "If I understand correctly, when Tara Z. Is sworn in as Controller in January, County Council will have 30 days to fill her vacant seat. How does Council do that? Because she is a Democrat, will her replacement be a Democrat? Does Lamont McClure propose a possible replacement? Does Council take “applications” from Northampton County residents that would meet the the qualifications necessary to sit on Council? And then Council decides amongst those “applicants?” I have not been able to find out how this works. I looked through the County Charter, online, but was unable to find anything about this procedure."
Although election results have yet to be certified, it is highly unlikely that John Cusick will be unable to overcome a 5,706 deficit as the official count continues this week. I'd agree that Zrinski will be the next controller, but will hold on to her County Counci seat until the last possible moment to prevent an anti-McClure Council from filling it with someone other than McClure's own pick.
Once Zrinski resigns, The Home Rule Charter provides that County Council must appoint someone to fill out the remainder of her term within 30 days after the position becomes vacant. (See Section 105). If unable to do so, a member of Council or any five registered voters can askthe courts to make an appointment, which must be done within 15 days of filing the petition. (See Section 105).
Whether it is County Council or the courts who appointe, the person selected must be a US Citizen who has resided continuously in the county for a year before the commencement of the term. (Section 103).
In Lehigh County, the person appointed must be a member of the same party as the person who left office. But in Northampton County, there is no such requirement. In fact, Council or the courts could appoint someone who never even registered to vote at all. The only prohibitions to appointment in the Charter are for paid county employees and officers of political parties.(Section 104). The state constitution also bars people convicted of "infamous crimes" from holding any office of trust. (Pa. Const. Art II, Sec. 7).
The Home Rule Charter imposes no requirement that Council seek applications ort interview interested people. But traditionally, County Council does ask for applications and will interview all interested parties.
In January, Council will be firmly in the hands of Democrats. Ken Kraft, Kevin Lott, Kelly Keegan and Jeff Warren are also acolytes for Executive Lamont McClure, They will push for his pick. They will need a fifth vote from either Ron Heckman or Lori Vargo Heffner, both of whom are more independent.
"anti-McClure pick", doubt that phony narrative about people hating McClure. He may be a uniquely unlikeable guy, but I doubt anyone truly hates him on council. They are their own branch of government so people would hope they pick someone they think will do the job and do not need the approval of the executive. I have been told that anyone who disagrees with McClure on anything is branded anti-Mcclure. It must be hard for council people to operate with that on their heads.
ReplyDeleteHeckman independent? Acting independently once or twice in a years long career isn't independent. He's still rubber stampy enough to bounce up Washington Street.
ReplyDeletePut a bag a rocks in her seat, it would be smarter then her and we will be good!
ReplyDeleteDoes this mean the person they appoint will serve until the First Monday in January 2006? That is the unexpired term.
ReplyDeleteJanuary 2026.
ReplyDeleteTara was considered by many to be the hardest worker in Northampton County government. She was also held by some as the conscience of the county., her loss on county council is great. There should be another Democratic Female put in her place. Ms. Sultana of Easton would be a great addition to the council. She is learned and passionate about issues of the People. She would shine a light on human rights abuses for the county. A passionate progressive.
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