Following weeks of discussion, Macungie Borough Council on Monday filled a vacancy on the eight-member board, appointing Thomas Ashelman to replace Ron Karboski, who resigned May 18.

Ashelman, the fifth-place finisher in the November election, was sworn in after a 5-1 vote, with Council President Carl Sell casting the lone dissenting vote. Ashelman has served in leadership roles as president of the Emmaus Youth Association and on the Cedar Church council, and has been active in youth sports programs.

Sell initially nominated Usame Tunagur for the seat. When asked about his choice, Sell said, “It’s my decision. That’s who I decided to nominate.”

During public comment, several residents supported Ashelman, urging council to base the appointment on election results rather than political considerations. While noting no personal objections to Tunagur, speakers said he had not regularly attended borough meetings and was less familiar with borough operations.

After public input, Tunagur withdrew his nomination. “I just realized I’ve been stalling the process, so I am rescinding my application,” Tunagur said. “I just realized I cost everyone a lot of time, and I don’t take anything personally.” Attendees applauded his decision. Tunagur said he intends to run in a future election. Mayor Bob Sell administered the oath of office, and Ashelman then joined council at the table. Council later approved the borough’s bill list, though a resident questioned why financial reports are not posted on the borough’s website and raised concerns about agendas not being posted in a timely manner, citing Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act. Staffing remained a concern. Business owner Tim Romig questioned the number of police officers, noting two vacancies. Council also discussed openings on the Planning Commission. Council member Sam Landis encouraged continued recruitment to broaden representation, while Mayor Sell expressed interest in serving on the commission. Council President Sell raised concerns about the mayor joining the body while involved in legal action against the borough. Residents from Brookdale, The Ridings and Fields at Brookside developments raised concerns about a walking path connecting the neighborhoods. They cited drainage issues, proximity to homes and limited emergency access, with some saying the path encroaches on private property. Others said the issues were not disclosed during home purchases. Residents and a homeowners association representative called for a meeting with affected communities and Keystone Engineering and requested a halt to ongoing work. Officials noted the development plan was approved several years ago, though some residents said the absence of a zoning hearing board and planning commission has made addressing concerns more difficult. Additional public comment included a suggestion to move public comment earlier in meetings to allow greater participation. Some residents also objected to the three-minute time limit for speakers.