Tamaqua Borough Council last week recognized officials who are leaving office.

Outgoing council woman Mary Linkevich said, “I am proud to have had the opportunity to have worked on projects that have impacted the community in a positive way.”

Outgoing members of council and the outgoing mayor received a gift of gratitude on behalf of the borough.

Outgoing Mayor Nathan Gerace said, “When I first stepped into this role, I never imagined how meaningful the experience would become. I’m deeply grateful to the residents of Tamaqua for electing me at 19 years old and giving me the opportunity to serve the borough for 8 years (two terms) as your mayor.

“I’ve been honored to lead our hardworking Tamaqua Police Department that serves our community so well, and it’s been a privilege to work alongside Borough Council, our borough employees, and Tamaqua’s many great community organizations.”

Gerace announced in February that he would not seek reelection since he is serving as Northeast Pennsylvania director for U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick. David S. Clemson will serve as mayor.

“Being elected at such a young age shaped me in ways I will always carry with me, and I am thankful for the guidance and support I received along the way. Tamaqua will always be home, and I am proud of what we accomplished together.”

Other outgoing members are Linkevich, who lost in the primary, and Ritchie Linkhorst, who did not seek reelection.

Kathy Kunkel was selected for a second four-year term. She will be joined by newly elected members George Haldeman and Kyle V. Olyphant.

In other matters, council announced that the borough police pension plan payment has been reduced.

Fred Older, vice president of senior municipal pension for Girard Pension Services said that as a result of the Jan. 1, 2025 actuarial valuations, the 2026 Police and Non-Uniformed MMOs have been revised.

The Police Plan is 94.9% funded, and the minimum municipal obligation is revised from $335,442 to $231,221, a savings of $104,221.

The Non-Uniformed Plan is 90% funded, and the MMO is revised from $214,505 to $167,700, a savings of $46,805.