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Three Palmerton incumbents took their oaths for council Monday, alongside one Republican newcomer who won his seat in November. [/naviga:h1] 

Andrew Hollywood was one of four to win in the six-person race late last year, snagging a four-year term on borough council. He swore in at a reorganization meeting early this week, taking the seat of former council member Randolph Gursky.  

Council members Terry Costenbader and Holly Hausman-Sell also started their own four-year terms Monday, and Michael Ballard began his two-year stint, which he won last year unopposed. 

After swearing in, Costenbader was voted to maintain his position as council president, with Councilman Kris Hoffner taking up the vice presidency. 

Palmerton Council also set its 2020 meeting schedule Monday, scheduling meetings tentatively for the second and fourth Thursday of each month, except for November and December, when meetings will be held on the first and third Thursday.  

Sometimes, Costenbader pointed out, the first meeting of the month is cancelled if there is no business to conduct.  

Donna McGarry retained her position as borough manager, secretary and treasurer and Michael Ozalas, solicitor. 

Council is still hoping to fill a few positions amid its boards and commissions, including the borough’s board of health, shade tree commission and council vacancy board.  

Captions: 

Palmerton Mayor Chris Olivia, center, swears in members of council Monday night. DANIELLE DERRICKSON/TIMES NEWS 

Current members of Palmerton Council pose for a photo. Pictured first row, from left, are Terry Costenbader and Kris Hoffner. Pictured back row, from left, are William Gallagher, Palmerton Mayor Chris Olivia, Holly Hausman-Sell, Michael Ballard and Andrew Hollywood. DANIELLE DERRICKSON/TIMES NEWS