Muncy Borough Council filled a vacant council seat, hired a police officer, and acted on other business at its recent regular monthly meeting.

Ed Feigles has become the newest member of council after Chris Holmes did not take steps to officially accept the seat.

Holmes was notified by borough officials he won the seat in the November election and was required to submit a signed affidavit of residency by Jan. 15 but failed to do so.

Borough officials noted that Holmes had indicated other obligations would likely preclude him from carrying out council duties.

Borough Manager Charles Hall told council that under borough code the council seat could subsequently be declared vacant.

“I will get in touch with Mr. Feigles and make him aware,” Hall said.

Feigles is a former member of council.

Council voted to hire Keifer Bathgate as a full-time policeman.

Bathgate’s hiring comes with the recommendation of the Civil Service Commission and Muncy Police Chief James Dorman.

His starting date is Jan. 25.

Council approved a joint resolution with Downtown Muncy, Inc. to develop a revitalization plan.

The plan’s target area is bounded by Sherman, Water, Market, and High streets and is considered of “historical industrial significance,” according to the resolution.

The resolution authorizes the creation of a revitalization task to prepare a comprehensive plan.

Linda Stein, a former borough councilwoman, noted that it marks a positive step forward for Muncy.

“This is the moment in Muncy history when a neglected part of town can be transformed,” she said.

Added Council President Scott Delany: “I think it’s a win, win.”

Council agreed to increase the hourly rate for school crossing guards from $16 to $19.

The guards work one-hour shifts, before and after school.

Wages for the job are split between the borough and the Muncy School District.

In other matters, council approved:

· A revision to the sewage facilities plan to include the replacement of a sewer line.

· A resolution eliminating contributions by members of the police department to their pension plan in 2026.

· The use of fire police at local events as needed.

· A request for a handicapped accessible parking spot at 38 S. Main St.

Council met in an executive session to consider personnel matters.

The next council meeting will be 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18 at Muncy High School.