Jan 17, 2013 2 min read

CARMICHAELS – Carmichaels Borough Council is planning to meet today to reconsider its vote to appoint Christopher Watson to the unexpired term of Annette Thomas, who resigned last month.

Council voted Wednesday to appoint Watson to the seat contingent on the affirmation of the vote by the state Association of Boroughs.

Watson and Elizabeth Walker, wife of council President Charles Walker, had submitted letters expressing interest in the position. A motion was introduced to appoint Watson and was approved in a 2 to 1 vote.

Charles Walker declined to vote, saying as president he could only vote to break a tie.

After councilman John Paletta, who voted no on Watson’s appointment, questioned whether three votes would be needed for an appointment, it was decided the appointment would stand contingent on its affirmation by the association.

Borough secretary Brandi Streit said Thursday she had talked to a representative of the association and was told Charles Walker should have voted on the appointment. She said she then talked with Charles Walker and he decided council should meet to reconsider the appointment.

Streit said council hopes to meet at 5 p.m. today to resolve the matter. She said Thursday night she still had to contact two council members to verify they could attend the meeting.

Mayor Mike Dohanich also will attend; Streit said she was told should there be a tie, the mayor will vote to break it.

Council has until Jan. 30 to make an appointment; otherwise the appointment will be decided by the court.