Bellwood Borough Council members were left with the task of filling a vacancy on council after the resignation of Ken Conrad.
Three letters of interest were received from Earl Garber, Wayne Snare and Donald Walker.
Council members voted, resulting in four votes to appoint Walker to the available seat. Snare received one vote.
A resolution was adopted, approving Walker to occupy the vacancy for the remainder of the term, which is two years.
Mayor Bonsell was unable to attend the meeting, therefore, Walker was not sworn in last night and was unable to participate in last night’s discussions. He will be sworn in by the mayor prior to next month’s meeting.
Council then got on with business.
Vice President Sue Johnson informed council members there will be a National Incident Management System (NIMS) course held at the Bellwood Fire Hall. The eight hour emergency planning course is offered to teach municipalities what to do in case of a natural disaster or other emergency. The course will be available for certain government officials, municipal workers, firemen and police officers.
“I think it’s to our benefit to attend,” Johnson told council.
While most emergency situations are handled locally, when there’s a major incident, help may be needed from other jurisdictions, the state and the federal government. NIMS was developed so responders from different jurisdictions and disciplines can work together better to respond to natural disasters and emergencies, including acts of terrorism.
NIMS benefits include a unified approach to incident management; standard command and management structures; and emphasis on preparedness, mutual aid and resource management.
Johnson said the courses may be opened up to neighboring municipalities such as Antis Township.
Under park and recreation, Johnson said meetings will begin next week. Also, a feasibility study is in the works for a DCNR grant for the pool. Antis Township has also been looking at future possibilities regarding the area’s pool and park.
