Spring City Borough will soon have a vacancy on borough council after John McGuire formally announced his resignation, effective March 9, citing his plans to build a local news organization serving the Spring-Ford community.
McGuire submitted a resignation letter to borough administration, the mayor and fellow council members confirming that March 2 would be his final council meeting. In the letter, he said he is stepping down to focus on launching and growing Spring-Ford Press, a local media business that will cover the Spring-Ford area.
“This work will require my full attention,” McGuire wrote, “and I believe it is important to avoid any situation where my professional efforts could overlap with or interfere in any way with the work of Borough Council.”
A Focus on Transparency and Avoiding Conflicts
McGuire told council Monday night that serving the borough has been “an honor and a privilege,” and reiterated in his letter that he is proud of what council has accomplished during his tenure.
His resignation takes effect March 9. Under state law, borough council will have 30 days from that date to appoint a replacement. Solicitor Matt Hovey explained that the appointment must occur by April 8, though council cannot formally fill the vacancy until the resignation becomes effective.
Recommendation for Former Councilor
In both his letter and remarks Monday night, McGuire recommended former councilor Paul Kern to fill the seat.
While acknowledging that they differ on some national policy issues, McGuire described Kern as committed to the borough and actively engaged in local service. He noted that Kern remains involved through the Parks & Recreation Committee and the Emergency Services Committee, regularly volunteers at borough events, and recently ran for council as a long-time incumbent.
“I believe he would step into the role with familiarity and dedication,” McGuire wrote.
Council took no action on the recommendation Monday night.