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TYRONE -- Terry Richardson, who has served on Borough Council for 9.5 years, has resigned because of illness.
Council on Monday accepted Richardson's resignation, which was effective at the end of last month, and served notice that it is seeking a replacement for him.
Tyrone residents interested in the vacant seat can send letters of interest to the borough secretary by close of business April 6, explaining why they should be considered, officials said Monday.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have lived in the borough for at least six months.
Council will interview the candidates in public at its April 13 meeting and may appoint one of the candidates at that meeting, officials said.
Richardson has been under medical supervision for three years for a rare blood disease that is treated like leukemia, he said by phone Monday.
The disease causes his white blood cells to "mass produce," necessitating four bone marrow transplants.
The illness has caused him to miss meetings.
"I don't think I can serve the people if I'm not there," he said.
Resigning his duties also will make it safer for him, he said.
Still, he regrets having to give up council duties, he said, pointing out that he did not hesitate to speak up when he felt strongly about an issue.
He was elected to one term, served it, went off council, returned via appointment, then was elected to continue, he said.
His term expires at the end of 2021.
"It's sad to hear," Mayor Bill Latchford said of Richardson's resignation.
"Terry was a great contributor," said the mayor's brother, Manager Ardean Latchford.
The replacement of Richardson will be the third such replacement in the last three years:
In March 2017, council appointed Dave Snyder to replace Christy Ray, who resigned because she moved out of the borough.
In March 2018, council appointed Thad Graham to replace Nate Verilla, who resigned due to business conflicts.