For the first time that anyone can recall, Coaldale has a junior borough councilman.

Council members voted unanimously Tuesday night to appoint Jacob Boyle to the seat.

Boyle is a sophomore at Panther Valley High School, where he is a member of the marching band, ensemble band, chorus and Future Business Leaders of America.

He’s also volunteered for First Baptist Church in Nesquehoning, Lansford Little League and the former St. Katharine Drexel Church in Lansford.

He said he became interested in local government after hearing stories from his grandfather, Richard Giantesano, who once served on Lansford council. He is also an aspiring writer who is interested in government.

“I would like to witness the bipartisanship cooperation at the local government level versus the gridlock of our federal government,” Boyle said in his letter of interest to council.

Boyle also submitted to council a document showing his family connection to the borough. His other grandfather, James Boyle, was once post commander of the Coaldale American Legion and lived along with his wife Gloria in the borough for 60-plus years.

Councilwoman Yvonne Stoffey said council has been looking for a junior member for more than a year, and Boyle’s community involvement made him a great choice.

“I think he’s going to have some young ideas for us. We’re just very excited to have a fresh face,” she said.

With two-plus years left in high school, Boyle said he hopes to remain in the seat as long as possible.