Mayor Torrance Harvey and Councilman Anthony Grice couldn’t contain their excitement as they reached the second to last agenda item at the Monday night Newburgh City Council Meeting. With a unanimous vote Bob Sklarz was approved to fill in the seat vacated when Jonathan Jacobson was elected to the New York State Assembly in November.

Sklarz is a 50 year resident of the City of Newburgh. He worked for the Newburgh Enlarged City School District until reaching his retirement recently.

“I’m excited about this with the hopes this position can be filled,” said Harvey. “I believe Mr Sklarz is going to bring a great balance to the council. He worked for the Democratic Committee and he knows how to deal politically.”

The Council was nothing but smiles as their newest member was sworn in and took his seat next to Councilwoman Patty Sofokles.

“Newburgh is in the middle of a renaissance,” said Sklarz, “When I was working I didn’t have the time to contribute, but now I want to get involved. The feeling in Newburgh is different than ever before. I look forward to being a part of the renaissance of Newburgh.”

Since Jacobson left the council in November Skalrz was approached by many friends in the community to fill the position. With some push from his wife and daughter, he decided to take the appointment.

Sklarz hopes to improve transportation, and housing in Newburgh. He is adamant on holding the state accountable to its word that the city water will be cleaned.

“A lot of people have their doubts of the filtration system set in place,” said Sklarz. “I want to be able to give assurance to residents that our water is clean. It’s a basic right.”