Councilwoman resigns in McCandless

McCandless Town Council is looking to replace Kimberly Zachary, who resigned her council seat in early December.

Zachary, the representative of Ward 1, is relocating out of town because of family circumstances, according her letter to council. She requested Council President Michael Tarle to read it at the Dec. 12 town council meeting.

“It has been both an honor and a privilege to serve this community the past eight years and will remain with me a lifetime,” Zachary wrote.

“I challenge and charge all of you to participate in local government to make the difference you want to see,” she said.

The council unanimously approved her resignation. Zachary’s term expires Dec. 31, 2023.

Applicants to fill the position must be qualified voters who reside in Ward 1 as registered Republicans, the same party as Zachary. Township ordinance requires a replacement to be the same political party as the resigning council member.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 2.

Council members will interview applicants prior to the Jan. 9 council meeting, when they will select the new council member. The swearing-in will occur on Jan. 23.

Interested residents must submit the application posted on www.townofmccandless.org, along with a letter of interest and resume to administration@townofmccandless.org or Town of McCandless, 9955 Grubbs Road, Wexford, 15090.

Tarle said a plaque has been requested to honor Zachary as she was the first female president to serve McCandless Town Council.

“It’s the least we could do for her for what she’s done for the town,” Tarle said.

Several residents who worked with Zachary on different council committees said she helped increase transparency and community involvement.

“She has done a lot to improve the operations of the council and allow more community members to participate more in the government,” said Irene Caliendo, of McCandless.

Rita Martin, of McCandless, said she was forward-thinking and tried new things.

“She brought McCandless into the 21st century whether you realize it or not,” Martin said.