A vacancy exists on Lehighton Borough Council following the departure of a veteran borough councilman.

Borough council at a special meeting on Monday accepted the resignation of councilman Joe Flickinger, effective Dec. 20.

In his resignation letter dated Dec. 16, Flickinger cited a change in his employment obligations that will leave him “unable to fully fulfill my obligations to my constituents that I have promised.”

“It has been a pleasure to serve not only with you but prior boards as well in the betterment for the residents of Lehighton Borough for the past nine years,” Flickinger said. “The residents and taxpayers of this fine borough can be proud of the projects these boards have successfully completed as well as the employees that strive daily to continue to make this community a better place.”

Councilman Ryan Saunders told Flickinger council accepted his resignation “with our deepest thank you and gratitude.”

Several other council members also thanked Flickinger for his service.

Afterward, council agreed to advertise the vacancy, and said letters of interest will be accepted until Jan. 5.

Councilman Darryl Arner was absent.