Palmerton’s borough council will start the year two members short due to a resignation and a seat change.

In a letter addressed to the council, Jeremy Barbosa resigned his seat on the borough council, along with his positions on the planning commission and the Palmerton Hospital Authority.

“This was not an easy decision, but due to personal reasons, I feel it is in the best interest of the borough,” Barbosa’s letter said.

The announcement came after a temporary adjournment of the regular meeting for an executive session.

Barbosa won the four-year council seat in a two-vote victory over fellow Democrat Randy Gursky in November’s election.

Barbosa had previously served on Council but resigned in July 2016 for personal reasons. He had served since 2010.

Democrat Kris Hoffner was sworn in for a four-year term, along with Republicans Richard Nothstein and William Gallagher.

Gallagher had to resign a previously held two-year seat before taking his four-year position.

Letters of interest for the vacant two and four-year positions will be accepted at the borough office until Jan. 10.

Terry Costenbader will continue to serve as council president, along with vice-president Kris Hoffner. Richard Nothstein was appointed chairman pro-tem.

Rodger Danielson was appointed borough manager, secretary, and streets commissioner.

Donna McGarry was appointed treasurer and assistant secretary.

Michael Ozalas was appointed as solicitor.

Keystone Consulting was appointed as the borough’s general engineer.

Other boards

The board announced vacancies for the zoning hearing board (alternate position), two shade tree commission positions, two board of health positions, two hospital authority positions, a council vacancy board position, and a planning commission position.

The council also announced that the local volunteer fire department is always looking for volunteers to serve in various positions. The fire department is also looking for letters of interest regarding the positions of fire chief and assistant fire chief.