SLIPPERY ROCK — After hearing from four candidates over the last two meetings, borough council members appointed a Slippery Rock University student to a 2-year position on council.

Council member Itzi Metzli motioned to appointed Denton Zeronas to council with a second from fellow member Gene Allison. The motion was approved with a 4-to-2 vote. Council members Ron Steele and Tom McPherson opposed the appointment.

Three of the four candidates, Regina Greenwald, Alissa Jordan and Zeronas each had a chance to promote themselves before discussion was opened. The fourth candidate Mike Pavelec spoke at last week's meeting.

Zeronas, 22, a Republican, ran in the primary and was the highest vote-getter who missed the general election. He is pursuing his bachelor's degree in secondary education-social studies at SRU with plans to pursue a master's degree.

“One of my big life mottos is overcoming adversity,” Zeronas said.

After the appointment, Zeronas was sworn into office by Mayor Jondavid Longo and took his seat.

“I was expecting to be sworn in at the end of the meeting, but I always hit the ground running,” Zeronas said.

Metzli, who spoke on Zeronas's behalf during his motion, said Zeronas offers a unique perspective.

“I feel like it would be good to have younger voices give some input,” Metzli said. “I also know him, and I'm very impressed.”

Zeronas cast his first vote which came on a unanimous approval of Gateway Engineers as the borough's engineering firm. The appointment of the firm was tabled at last week's reorganization meeting.

Zeronas said he looks forward to being not only a representative for his school but his community.

“I'm excited to take on this opportunity,” he said.