Scott Likely for LH Council Vacancy

LOCK HAVEN—Not only did Lock Haven City Council interview candidates for a council vacancy behind closed doors but, The Record has learned, council also moved to select the successful applicant, Machell Scott.

Council had taken some media heat after their March 6 executive session, the Lock Haven Express quoting counsel with the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association; Melissa Melewsky said the Sunshine Act requires that a discussion relative to filling a vacancy must be held at a public meeting.

The Record has subsequently found out that a council quorum on the night of March 6, after privately interviewing four candidates for the one vacancy, also moved to name Machell Scott, a local realtor, as the new council member.

The Record has obtained a copy of the city email sent to one of the unsuccessful applicants, thanking him for his interest. The email from city manager Rich Marcinkevage said, “After much deliberation by City Council Monday night, Council indicated they will appoint Machell Scott to the current vacancy.”

Council is expected to officially confirm its closed-door pick at its next public meeting on Monday, March 17.

City Mayor Rick Vilello, asked if council had moved to select Scott to fill the vacancy, did not deny what The Record had learned.

Vilello, acknowledging the Sunshine Law’s intent, again took issue with the requirement that such interviews be held in public. He said he believed applicants can be more candid in their answers behind closed doors.

Vilello did say any similar future discussions/interviews would be held in public.