After more than a few arguments, borough council has resolved its contentious zoning hearing board issue.

Some board members had been playing fast and loose with keeping appointments, growing progressively less likely to appear for meetings in the past year, and council recently began discussing downsizing the board from five to three members to lay the responsibility on more reliable members.

Two new volunteers appeared, however, and were accepted at the Feb. 1 council meeting.

They are Liz Fox and Michael Spencer, an acoustic engineer who has worked on sites in the borough, including the closed Bottom Dollar site.

When the issue was announced, Connie Skelly-Potts, a 14-year zoner, suggested adamantly that no reduction in board members be allowed. “Three members is not enough. Five members have more experience, knowledge and professionalism.”

President Larry Rapp weathered this in good humor, saying as two new possible members were present the issue would likely die anyway, which it did without support.

As he announced his qualifications, Spencer backed Skelly-Potts’ opinion

Both new zoners were accepted without argument.

Nearly everyone in the room also took a moment to thanks Jim Levernier and his public works crews for their efforts during winter storm Jonas. Mayor Jose Rosado said by Sunday afternoon he’d been able to walks and drive around the borough, and others added their thanks. Council members and visitors applauded Levernier, who later laughed and said, “It’s a good time tonight.”