Emotions spilled over in Northampton Borough Council chambers May 19 for retiring borough Manager Gene Zarayko, as members of council lauded the veteran official for three decades of leadership and service to the community and its people.

During a March 3 meeting, Zarayko announced he would retire May 31.

Zarayko’s legacy and the bonds between local government and residents were said to bode well into the future, whether it be the brick-and-mortar projects at the borough hall, police station, recreation center or fire station, along with maintaining a real estate tax base that kept families in their homes.

Former council President John Yurish returned to the chambers, saying Zarayko committed himself to “serving the borough 24/7” and was a person “who bled orange and black.”

“Gene was always here for us. You did a heck of a job, Gene,” Yurish said.

“You will be missed,” said Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr., a retired borough police officer who has been friends with Zarayko even before his years as borough manager.

Both men reside on Newport Avenue.

State Rep. Julie Harhart, R-183rd, in presenting Zarayko with a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, said, “You can relate Northampton with Gene Zarayko.”

She noted his accomplishments can be seen throughout the community.

Zarayko was taken aback when council said it would name 14th Street, Laubach Avenue to Washington Avenue, “Gene Zarayko Drive.” His longtime secretary, Barbara Matuzinski, brought to council the orange and black street sign bearing Zarayko’s name.

Councilman Ed Pany heaped praise on Zarayko for many accomplishments, taking into account the borough, with a large number of seniors and working families, has an average annual household income of $48,000, below many other communities in Northampton County.

The proceedings were punctuated several times with bursts of applause from the room filled with staff, council members and residents.

Brushing tears from his eyes, Zarayko gave credit to his staff, department heads and borough employees for the success heaped on him.

Zarayko was appointed by council in March 1986 as borough manager when, at the time, he was a council member.

On his appointment, Zarayko said, “I am from town. I know the people, and I know the problems.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you, all,” Zarayko said. “God bless you, all.”