The new Ford City Council includes: (L-R) (back row) Ray Klukan, Kathy Bartuccio, Marc Mantini, (front row) Beth Bowser, Tyson Klukan, and Carol Fenyes.
by Dalton Bowser
Ford City Borough Council came under new leadership last night with the swearing in of four new council members and the appointment of new officers.
Carol Fenyes took over as the new Council President, replacing Kathy Bartuccio.
Fenyes commented on the top issues facing the Borough.
“We need to rebuild the police department. We have the EDA debt we need to consider. We have economic development, a water plant, you name it!”
Fenyes realized that this is a lot to tackle, but she is addressing her immediate goal.
“…Getting through this first week and hopefully being able to (articulate) at the council meeting on Monday what our priorities are.”
Other newly elected officers included Vice President Tyson Klukan and President Pro-Tem Beth Bowser. Both also realized the many issues facing the borough, but were optimistic about bringing solutions in the future.
Klukan made a formal speech to the audience.
“We are witnessing a historic moment for Ford City Borough.”
He showed gratitude for the positions and seize this solemn responsibility of representing the people.
“I want to be able to show current businesses along with new businesses and residents that Ford City Borough Council is approachable and trustworthy.”
Klukan was optimistic about future solutions for the Borough, making an impassioned plea for cooperation.
“Tonight take my hand and let’s work together to make Ford City the town that John B. Ford would be proud of again.”
Bowser said that she has an open door policy and desires input from residents to know how she can help them.
Marc Mantini was also sworn in as a new council member. In order to take this new position, he resigned as mayor during the first part of the meeting.
Due to Mantini’s resignation, Ford City is now seeking letters of interest for the mayor position. Letters can be dropped off at the Municipal Building or sent to: Borough of Ford City, 1000 Fourth Avenue, Ford City, PA 16226.
When Ford City continues with regular business at their monthly meeting next Monday, the Choo-Choo will definitely be on the agenda. The Council previously approved last year gifting the train to the Ford City Renaissance Partnership. When the title was not able to be found, the community group paid out of its own pocket to have the title reissued.
It was recommended that the Council transfer the title to the Renaissance Partnership. Some residents, however, were concerned what would happen to the train if the Renaissance Partnership terminated. One resident noted that the train was going to be sold for junk anyway, so it was not a big deal. The Council decided to look at the agreement more closely and decide upon it next week.
The next meeting will be held at 6PM in the Ford City Public Library on Monday, January 11.