Lock Haven council appoints Alexander "Alex" DeCostanzo to vacant seat after interviews

Lock Haven City Council appointed Alexander “Alex” DeCostanzo to a vacant council seat after interviewing four finalists at its June meeting. The council voted unanimously to seat DeCostanzo for the unexpired term; the appointee must be sworn in before he can vote.

DeCostanzo, a local business owner who described himself as a project manager with experience hiring and training employees, told council his priority would be supporting local employment and housing opportunities. “Helping them in employment situations where they can fit the needs of their probation and still work and get back on their feet,” DeCostanzo said, explaining why he sought the post.

Council members asked each applicant a standard set of constitutional disqualifier questions read by the city manager and followed with topic-specific queries about priorities, skills and plans to run for office. Applicants included Dr. Jeff Brinker, who cited 26 years in education and community coaching; Nathan ("Mac") Kownacki, who emphasized listening and local knowledge; and William (Bill) McGill, who noted prior community leadership and veteran status.

After deliberation Council member Stevenson moved to appoint DeCostanzo to the vacancy to give the candidate a head start ahead of the November ballot; Council member Morris seconded the motion. The council then called the roll; all members present voted yes.

Mayor Long said staff will arrange a time for the swearing-in so the new member may immediately begin participating. Council members publicly thanked the other candidates for their interest and encouraged them to remain active through boards and commissions or future runs for office.

Next steps: the city manager will provide the appointee with the council packet and set the swearing-in date so DeCostanzo may begin voting at subsequent council meetings.