Weatherly Borough Council made last month’s appointment of a new police chief official and recognized and thanked the former chief for decades of service to the borough.

Council unanimously ratified the appointment of Sgt. Michael Bogart as the borough’s new police chief on Monday.

Mayor Norman Richie presented the outgoing chief, Brian Markovchick, who retired this summer, with a proclamation recognizing his 31 years of service to the borough.

“Through his leadership the department was among the first in the region to provide officers with the technology and equipment to advance their policing to better serve the community,” Richie read.

“Weatherly Borough Council acknowledges and admires the excellence and outstanding achievements Chief Markovchick has accomplished while Chief of Police and recognizes the countless hours he selflessly dedicated to the department and residents of Weatherly,” he said.

Bogart, who spent his entire career working with Markovchick, also thanked him for service and dedication.

“I’m standing here because of that guy right there,” Bogart said addressing council. “I can’t say enough good things about him. He deserves a lot more credit than what we give him.

“He’ll definitely be missed,” the new chief said.

Council had unanimously approved Bogart’s appointment as chief last month following an executive session for personnel, but the appointment didn’t appear on the agenda, as required by the state’s Sunshine Law.

Agendas must be posted 24 hours ahead of a meeting and detail items for deliberation and voting. Council can only take action on non-agenda items if they are minor or an emergency, under the law.

Council ratified Bogart’s appointment, which had been approved pending a side letter pending the union’s agreement to a side letter regarding his benefits.