Nazareth Councilwoman Re-Emerges After Missing Meetings

It was almost getting to the point where maybe her picture should have been placed on the back of a milk carton.

But Nazareth Councilwoman Cynthia Werner finally reappeared for the borough's special pool meeting last week after missing several council meetings.

Werner, who is not seeking re-election to her Second Ward council seat, did not offer an explanation for her absense from council business.

At the borough's regular meeting earlier this month, residents wondered where Werner was and why she wasn't representing her constituents.

"Shouldn't something be done?" the resident asked.

Council members then began asking the same questions.

They stated that Werner had missed meetings in four of the past five months.

Councilman Frank Maurek said that state law used to allow a council to remove a member after three meetings, but the law was changed.

"We realize the person is missing," he said. "It's upsetting. The person took an oath and should be here. Or she should make a suggestion to resign."

"All we can do is ask," Council Vice President Larry Stoudt said. "She doesn't have to do anything."

Council President Dan Chiavaroli said he would make a phone call to Werner and let her know of council's discussion. He said the law committee would then send a letter to her.

"I'm looking at small steps," he said. "She served many years on the council and has done a lot of good things. Let's give her the courtesy."

While Werner attended the pool meeting, it is not clear whether she will attend the Borough Council's workshop at 7 p.m. Thursday.