City council thanked outgoing members for their service and welcomed new members at the swearing in ceremony during the reorganization meeting Jan. 4.

Council member Michael Recchiuti, who is finishing his term, said, “It’s been a real opportunity to serve. I’m truly humbled. It’s been a privilege. Thank you.”

Council president J. William Reynolds said to Recchiuti, “It was an honor serving with you. Your knowledge and detail is something this council is going to miss. It was very important in the evolution of Bethlehem and moving the city forward.”

Council member Cathy Reuscher thanked her fellow council members “for putting their trust in me two years ago” when she was appointed to fill the seat vacated by Bob Donchez when he became mayor.

Reynolds said Reuscher “stepped into a difficult situation. You came along exactly at the right time.”

Council member Louis Stellato thanked council members “for taking me through these last 14 months. It’s been an honor and a pleasure,” he said. He also thanked the mayor and city staff for all they have done.

Reynolds said to Stellato, “We appreciate your service and what you brought to city council.”

Council member Eric Evans said all the outgoing members contributed to the council. “Each in their own way are special. They all brought strengths.” Donchez said, “Thank you for your service to the city.” He also welcomed the new council members.

Donchez appointed Stellato to fill the vacant seat on the planning board which was previously held by incoming council member Olga Negron-Dipini.

During the public portion of the meeting, resident Steven Antalics said that while he has no problem with Stellato, he thinks resident Bill Scheier would be a better choice for the planning board. “I know nothing at all negative about Mr. Stellato,” Antalics said. He urged council members to table the decision until the new council was in place. “They will have to live with it,” he said.

Evans said Stellato will be “a great addition to planning commission” and council member Adam Waldron said council does not control who the mayor nominates for a position and only votes to approve a nomination. Stellato recused himself and was approved with a 6-0 vote.

Reynolds read the council’s annual report of 2015, which recorded council approved 50 ordinances and 292 resolutions, and held 16 committee meetings as well as regular council meetings.

Northampton County Judge Stephen Baratta administered the oath of office to incoming council members Michael Colon and Shawn Martell, as well as incumbent J. William Reynolds, Controller George Yasso and Treasurer Kaija Farber. Incoming council member Olga Negron-Dipini was sworn in by Pennsylvania Secretary of State Pedro Cortes.

After the swearing-in ceremony, the new council elected Reynolds as president and council member Adam Waldron as vice president.