ZELIENOPLE — Borough Council president Mary Hess announced she was stepping down from her position at the beginning of a regular monthly meeting on Monday, Jan. 13.

“Just life events. There was a lot going on in my life,” Hess said on the reasoning behind her decision. “I just decided that it was time to step back.”

While her resignation took effect immediately, she will remain on council as a member. Hess will also retain her paid position as Lancaster Township’s manager, a role that she has held since October 2023.

She had served as president for the last three years after being first elected to borough council in 2008.

“We’ve seen tremendous change here (in the borough),” she said. “The council itself has evolved, and there’s so much youth and energy here. It’s amazing to see. I’m excited to see the direction that the town still continues to move in. I think the younger, newer council members are going to make such a huge difference.”

In her final act as president, Hess appointed councilman Gregg Semel as her successor, a move that was accepted by the rest of the council.

Semel was first elected to council in 2014. Despite being a member for more than a decade, it will be his first time serving as president.

“It’s an honor to serve this community,” Semel said. “It’s an outstanding community. You learn from everybody’s leadership style. I hope I can add my own touch. I think at the end of the day, we serve the residents and the community. That’s why we’re here. I hope that we will continue that credo as we move forward.”

According to Hess, it was the right decision at the right time.

“Gregg is certainly qualified,” she said. “He has a little more time to commit as well.”

Borough manager Andrew Spencer was complimentary of Hess for her dedication to the borough’s ongoing efforts.

“Every council person brings a different gift and a different talent, just the same as employees do,” he said. “In her time here, the borough has done some really great things. The tenure of council here is what makes a difference. The continuity enables good synergy.”