Sean LaSalle, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach in Macungie, was sworn in as the new president of the Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors at an induction ceremony held at Hotel Bethlehem on Jan. 18.

He replaces former GLVR President Cass Chies, the broker-owner of RE/MAX Diamond 1st Realty in Palmerton. The president of the association holds the position for one year and is elected by a nominating committee, which consists of the past president and two directors.

During his presidency, LaSalle, who has been a Realtor for 14 years, said he expects to face challenges, which will directly affect the real estate industry, GLVR’s members, and the area’s home buyers and sellers.

Two goals top LaSalle’s agenda for his presidency — participating in discussions and backing the addition of a passenger rail in the Lehigh Valley and member participation in the Realtor Political Action Committee.

“Being a licensed Realtor in New Jersey, I have seen firsthand what a passenger rail can bring to the communities it passes through — jobs, tourism, equity to homeowners, and more,” he said.

LaSalle has asked GLVR’s staff and Board of Directors to participate in talks with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, and local legislators.

Originally from Totowa, New Jersey, LaSalle has resided in Salisbury Township since 2002 with his wife, Patricia, and two children, Matthew and Carissa.