Credit: New Hope Borough
New Hope Borough Council voted Tuesday evening unanimously to appoint Kelly Whitman to the governing body.
Whitman’s appointment to council comes a month after Council Vice President Laurie McHugh’s tragic and sudden passing in an automobile accident.
The meeting began with a moment of silence for McHugh, who proudly served the New Hope Borough community for eight years and was a champion and fighter for local businesses.
Council President Connie Gering read a heartfelt poem she wrote in memory of her colleague and friend during an emotional moment at the beginning of the council meeting.
Whitman will serve the remainder of McHugh’s term until the end of the calendar year, according to Borough Manager Peter Gray.
Whitman is no stranger to New Hope Borough’s government. Before being appointed to council, Whitman served on the planning commission.
“Kelly has been active on the Planning Commission and has attended numerous Council meetings. We feel she will be a great addition to finish Laurie McHugh’s term,” Gering said.
Councilwoman Louise Feder praised her new colleague’s expertise, saying that Whitman will “hit the ground running” thanks to her experience.
After the calendar year is over, Whitman’s interim term to fill the vacancy will end.
Whitman is running for council in November. If she wins, she will take a four-year term on council.
Leave a Comment