Klotz to resign board seat

LOWER POTTSGROVE » Although Stephen Klotz has announced his intention to resign as a Lower Pottsgrove Township commissioner, the search for his replacement has not yet begun.

During the Feb. 5 meeting, Klotz, who is the board’s vice president, informed the commissioners that he has received a promotion at his job at Horizon Services and is moving to New Jersey on Feb. 20.

In his most recent stint, Klotz has served on the board of commissioners since his election in

2011. He had served previously as well.

Township Manager Ed Wagner said it is his understanding that the board will officially accept Klotz’s resignation at its Feb. 22 meeting.

By law, the board will then have 30 days to replace him. There are about two years left on his term.

Given that board President Bruce Foltz is expected to be absent at that meeting, Wagner said it’s unlikely an appointment to replace Klotz will occur then.

More likely is that the commissioners will follow the procedure they have in recent years and ask those with an interest to submit a letter and resume to fill the vacancy.

And it’s a pretty regular event in this township lately.

In fact, since 2014, last year was the only year in which the board did not lose at least one member.

In June of 2014, former commissioner Jonathan Spadt resigned for reasons related to his job. He was replaced by James Vlahos.

In February of 2015, former commissioner James Kaiser resigned for reasons related to his job. He was replaced by Earl Swavely Jr.

In September of 2015, former commissioner Shawn Watson resigned after The Mercury revealed he had a long list of unpaid taxes, including to the township and school district. He was replaced by Ray Lopez.

In May of 2016, Vlahos resigned for reasons related to his business, just seven months after winning election to a full term. He was replaced by Robert Mohollen, who was elected to the remainder of Vlahos’ term in November.

Monday night, the commissioners did Klotz the honor of allowing him to run what turned out to be a very quick meeting.

They will soon get down to what has become a very familiar task.