Gettysburg Borough Council held its annual reorganization meeting on Monday, swearing in new Mayor Chad-Alan Carr and borough council members, electing council leadership, and confirming key administrative and departmental appointments.
After being sworn in by outgoing mayor Rita Freeling, Carr outlined a leadership approach centered on stewardship, collaboration, and community engagement. He said his priorities include listening to residents, supporting local businesses, holding regular public office hours, engaging young people in civic life, participating in statewide mayoral meetings, and using social media to keep residents informed while highlighting local organizations and events.
Council members Matthew Moon, Jeffrey Rioux, Chris Berger, Alisha Sanders, Peter Bales, and William Mooney III were seated following the election cycle. Council elected Matt Moon as Council President and Alisha Sanders as Vice President by unanimous roll-call votes.
Council approved Resolution 010526, confirming and ratifying borough staff and professional appointments. These included Charles R. Gable, MPA, as Borough Manager and Treasurer; Sara L. Stull as Borough Secretary and Right-to-Know Officer; Karen M. Mesher as Planning Assistant and Assistant Borough Secretary; Debra English as Historic and Environmental Preservation Coordinator; John Whitmore, AICP, as Planning Director; Peter Griffioen as Code Compliance Officer; Robert Harbaugh as Public Works Director; Bradley A. LaBure as Public Works Foreman; Tammy Murdorf as Finance I; and Marie Figueroa Ocasio as HR Coordinator and Project Management Assistant. Council also confirmed additional professional and advisory appointments.
In closing remarks to the short meeting, Moon emphasized the importance of respectful, collaborative local governance and council’s responsibility to protect the health, safety, and welfare of borough residents. He said disagreement and debate are part of democracy, but effective government depends on professionalism, mutual respect, and a willingness to move forward together after decisions are made.
Moon reflected on Gettysburg’s historic significance while stressing that the borough is a living community with present-day needs. He encouraged council members to rely on the expertise of borough staff, ask whether actions are legal and possible, and to approach decisions with fairness and kindness, even when issues are complex or unpopular.
Acknowledging that mistakes are inevitable, Moon said democracy is often slow and imperfect but remains the best system available, particularly at the local level, where good governance can mean keeping essential services running and supporting neighbors.
Moon urged council members to approach their work with care, courage, and a commitment to learning. “Educate yourself on each topic. Find out what is right,” he said.
Featured image caption: Carr (L.) swears in newest council member Jeff Rioux.
