When Tara Zrinski was sworn in as NorCo Exec, she was required to resign her position as County Controller. Under the Home Rule Charter, County Council has the obligation of filling the vacancy and must do so within 30 days. If they fail to do so, the courts can be requested to make the appointment.
Two years ago, when Zrinski resigned her position on County Council to become Controller, Council deadlocked on a replacement, and President Judge Criag Dally was forced to appoint Jeff Corpora. For Council, it was a sign of disfunction that would continue until the end of 2025. With a new Council in place, will this continue?
Although no mention of the vacancy was made during County Council's meetings earlier this month, the vacancy was posted on Council's webpage and with the Morning Call. Applications were due on January 16, and those who applied will be interviewed by County Council on January 22.
Northampton County's Home Rule Charter is silent on whether the vacancy should be filled by someone who belongs to the same party as the person who held the office. Lehigh County's Home Rule Charter does have the same-party requirement for such an appointment, and this appears to be a more democratic way of choosing a replacement that aligns with the wishes of the voters. In this case, that means that Zrinski, a Democrat, should be replaced by a Democrat.
Council member Jason Boulette, in a comment he was kind enough to share with readers on this blog, said there are several "excellent" candidates. I will be delighted of the person selected is able to be independent.
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