Butler Councilmen Sworn In to New Terms

Butler's two re-elected councilmen were sworn in during Wednesday's reorganization meeting.

After taking the Oath of Office, Councilman Robert Fox, who will be serving his sixth term, thanked borough voters for their confidence.

"I've seen a lot of changes over the last 15 years and I've got to say, I think we have the best council," he said.

Councilman Robert Meier, who was sworn in to his second three-year term, also thanked voters and noted the positive changes he has seen in the past several years, particularly to the Butler Electric Department of which he has been the council liaison to in the year past. 

"I am looking forward to serving again," he said.

The council made several professional appointments and committee delegations at Wednesday's meeting. Among them was the selection of a council president, who would act as mayor in Mayor Robert Alviene's absence. Councilman Edwin Vath was selected as president.

The council reaffirmed the selection of Borough Attorney Martin F. Murphy and Borough Engineer Paul Darmofalski and appointed new members to the Butler Planning Board including Jeff Gerraro and Michael Gyrgus. Two appointment sections were tabled for further review: the appointments to the Butler Alliance and Museum Committee.

During his remarks, Alviene noted the unique nature of 2012.

"This whole year's been an interesting year, a trying year," Alviene said.

Speaking about Superstorm Sandy, the mayor said that while he hopes Butler is not faced with a similar event in the future, the borough has proved its ability to rise to the challenges it may bring.

"We will weather any storm and we will move forward," he said.