There will be some new faces on Tamaqua Borough Council this year.

Councilman Ritchie Linkhorst took his seat at the table last night, following a win in the November election. James E. Hull was also elected to a four-year seat on council; however, Hull informed council that since the election he has relocated to Pottsville and will not be able to serve his term.

Mary Linkevich was tapped to fill the vacancy. Linkevich previously served as the director of community development for the borough, but resigned earlier this year to pursue another career opportunity.

Council reappointed David Mace, who also won another term in November, as council president, with Brian Connely serving as vice president. Tom Cara was elected president pro tem. Councilmen Dan Evans and Ron Bowman complete the governing body.

In other business, borough Manager Kevin Steigerwalt advised council that the smoke testing that was planned for the South Ward sewer lines along Spruce Street has been postponed due to the frigid temperatures.

Steigerwalt said the borough will be collecting Christmas trees until the end of January. Trees are being recycled and must be free of any decoration and not bagged.

He also reminded residents that the borough’s snow removal policies must be followed, including clearing sidewalks and removing vehicles from posted areas during plowing. Connely advised residents that the borough is not responsible for frozen pipes or water meters and urged residents to be vigilant to prevent freezing.

Council held an executive session for personnel matters.