Aug 13, 2013 2 min read

McMURRAY – Following the July death of longtime at-large Councilman Robert Atkison, Peters Township solicited inquiries from residents who were interested in filling the vacancy through the end of 2013. Initially, eight residents applied, but before council voted Monday, Otto Szabo Jr. asked that his name be removed from consideration.

Of the remaining candidates, Councilwoman Monica Merrell nominated Frank Kosir Jr., and Councilman James Berquist nominated Michael McCaig, who served on council from 2008-09 until he was defeated in an election by Gary Steigel Jr., who continues to serve on the seven-member council.

During a roll-call vote, McCaig, a Republican, was chosen to fill the vacancy, with Berquist, Robert Lewis, David Ball and Frank Arcuri voting for his nomination. Merrell and Steigel voted for Kosir.

McCaig did not attend the meeting.

Others who applied were Harry J. Verlato, A. Scott Kleinschnitz, Dale F. Griffith, Richard A. Caporal Jr. and William Furedy.

McCaig will serve until the end of 2013 and, if he chooses, will run during a special election.

Merrell said there could be a potential conflict of interest if bond issues come before council, because McCaig has advised council on such matters. Michael Silvestri, township manager, said he did not expect council to address any bond issues before the end of the year.

No date was announced for McCaig to be sworn in, but it could be as soon as the next council meeting Aug. 26.

Following the meeting, Arcuri said he felt McCaig was a good choice because the budget process for 2014 will begin soon and McCaig is “well versed” when it comes to budget decisions.

To honor Atkison, who served on council for more than 20 years and who was active in the ambulance service, the township will name the eastern entrance to the municipal complex near the clock and the library Atkison Way.

The entrance, which currently has no name, is not an official township street, but members felt honoring Atkison in this manner was appropriate.

The entrance will have a street sign that will be unveiled at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26. Silvestri said Atkison’s family, friends and state representatives will attend.