Springdale Council President James Zurisko has resigned after serving on the council for 12 years.

Council members said Zurisko told them he was stepping down because he is moving to Buffalo Township. Council voted Tuesday to accept the resignation.

Zurisko did not respond to requests for comment.

Council Vice President Eileen Miller declined to take over as president, citing health issues. Council then elected Mitch Karaica to the presidency by a 5-0 vote and selected Brittni Bair, 31, to fill the vacant seat, also by a 5-0 vote. Bair becomes one of the area’s youngest officeholders.

Miller said it will be difficult to fill Zurisko’s shoes.

“Jim is irreplaceable,” she said. “He led with dignity and honor because he loves Springdale. But this is a good move for him and his wife.”

Borough solicitor Craig Alexander told Karaica he must run this year for a 2-year term because the vacancy was the council president’s seat.

Miller said the borough is in capable hands under Karaica’s leadership.

“Mitch is going to do a good job. Springdale will be OK. We’re survivors, and we’re in it for the good of the community,” she said.

Bair’s appointment runs until Dec. 31, when the term of the vacant seat expires. Bair, however, already is on the ballot for the Nov. 2 election to run for a full, 4-year term.

“We have a home here and rental property here (with husband Travis),” Bair said. “I want to see what I can give back to the community.”

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