Louis Mitchalk, a former fire chief in Summit Hill, was the unanimous choice to fill a vacancy on Summit Hill Borough Council during a meeting on Tuesday.

Mitchalk was one of five candidates who sought the seat that was formerly occupied by the late David Wargo. Wargo, who had been president of the borough council, died on June 8 at the age of 58.

The new councilman had served as fire chief for about 12 years until 1998. He is presently an active member of Summit Hill’s Diligence Fire Company.

Councilman Edward Kane made the motion to appoint Mitchalk, while Sherri Buzik, an officer with the fire company auxiliary, seconded the motion. No other nominations were made.

Others who applied for the seat were George Ruzicka, Edward Altemose, Michele Nikolay and Rusty Arnold.

Mitchalk was administered the oath of office by Mayor Karen Ruzicka.

After Mitchalk was seated, the council reorganized.

The council’s vice chairman, Joe Weber, has been in charge of the meetings for most of the year.

By unanimous choice, Weber was named to succeed Wargo as chairman. There were no other nominations.

“Thank you for the honor,” said Weber, adding, “I have very big shoes to fill.”

Buzik volunteered to serve as vice chair but was advised she had to be elected to the position. She was then unanimously elected to the position.