HARMONY — Borough council Tuesday night appointed a member who is a newcomer to municipal government.

Council appointed Jason Sarver to fill the vacancy left when former President Jim Hulings resigned in November.

Sarver said he has never been on a government board, but wanted to get more involved in the community.

“I’ve been part of the community for long enough now to know what is important. I think it’s important for council to establish a foundation where the community can flourish, whether it’s small businesses, which are so important in this community, or individuals and families,” he said.

Sarver, 40, has lived in the borough for 13 years and is married with three children. He works for Sempermed in medical sales.

At council’s Nov. 11 meeting he spoke up after council member Greg Such asked the audience if anyone had an interest in being appointed to fill the vacancy.

He said he also spoke with several council members privately about the position before they voted to appoint him.

“I thought this was a good way to step forward and become more involved,” he said.

Council will meet in January to reorganize and choose a new president and vice president.

Hulings announced his retirement on Nov. 6.

Sarver’s seat will be up for election in November 2015, and he intends to run.