Robert “Bob” Coleman, a Northampton Borough councilman for the last 12 years, has resigned his office. Borough council members, at their April 20 meeting, accepted Coleman’s resignation, effective immediately, with regrets.

Borough Manager LeRoy Brobst said Coleman submitted a letter notifying the administration and council his resignation is based on medical reasons. The vacancy will be filled by appointment from council.

Councilman Ed Pany expressed regret in Coleman leaving his position - not only as a councilman, but as a friend.

“It’s very sad, very sad to see him step down,” Pany said, words echoed by Councilman Anthony Pristash.

The vote to accept Coleman’s resignation was unanimous, 5-0. Absent were council members Robert McHale and Keith Piescienski.

Coleman and Piescienski were elected by voters residing in the first ward. The borough has eight elected council members, two from each ward. Every two years, one of the council persons from the four wards is on the ballot. The terms are four years.

Coleman’s current term of office expires Dec. 31. He chose not to seek re-election.

Coleman is a Democrat; however, there is no first ward candidate on the May 16 primary election ballot. There could be a candidate for the office in the November general election ballot via a write-in vote.

Coleman was active on issues that came before council. He frequently stressed that respect should be given to military personnel past and present.

His humor on occasion added levity to borough proceedings, council members agreed.

Brobst said the borough will now advertise for applicants to fill Coleman’s position until the end of the year. The individual must reside in the first ward to be considered. Council will make the appointment by a voice vote.