Northampton Borough Council at the Aug. 21 meeting appointed Greg Morey to serve as supervisor of the borough's public works department.

Morey replaces Steve Gerny, who is retiring Friday, after more than four decades of service with the borough.

Morey, 54, began employment with the borough's public works department at age 19.

He was later assigned to the road crew, where he performed a variety of duties such as snow removal, road maintenance and, more recently, street sweeping.

Morey has 35 years of service with the public works department.

Council set Morey's salary at $61,067.

Borough Manager Gene Zarayko said Morey was selected during an interview process.

"The promotion will take effect Sept. 1," Zarayko said.

Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr. praised both Gerny and Morey, saying the public works department has served the borough well.

Morey will head a crew of nine men and one mechanic.

Recalling Gerny's long tenure with the borough, Lopsonzski said whether it was 3 a.m. to go out on snow removal or assist an ambulance to respond to a call, Gerny was always ready.