For the second time this year, Ferguson Township is looking to fill a vacancy on its Board of Supervisors.
At-large Supervisor Tierra Williams submitted her notice of resignation, effective Nov. 4, on Oct. 15.
Williams, who was elected to her first term last November, wrote that it “has been an honor,” to serve on the board and that she has learned much.
“This is very bittersweet for me as this decision has not been made lightly — but I know it is the best decision for myself and my family,” she wrote in her resignation notice.
Supervisor Patty Stephens said she will miss Williams’ “perspective and her enthusiasm.” Supervisor Jeremie Thompson added that “it’s been great working with her.”
The board “regrettably” accepted Williams’ resignation, Supervisor Lisa Strickland said.
“I think Tierra’s a great contributor to progress in the township and on this board,” Strickland said. “Her input will be missed. I would like to thank her for her time and her service on this board and wish her the very best in anything she takes on in the future.”
Residents who wish to be considered to fill the vacancy can submit an application, letter of interest and resume by 4 p.m. on Nov. 4 to Board Chair Laura Dininni, 3147 Research Drive, State College, PA 16801 or by email to Township Manager Centrice Martin at admin@twp.ferguson.pa.us.
To be eligible, applicants must live in Ferguson Township and be a registered voter there for a period of at least one year prior to the appointment, which is tentatively scheduled for Nov. 15.
The appointment will last through Dec. 31, 2023. Because Williams will have only served 11 months of the four-year term, the position will be on the ballot in the 2023 election, with the winner serving out the remainder of the term through the end of 2025.
Williams was part of a history-making board when she was sworn into office in January as Ferguson Township seated the first all-female municipal governing board in the Centre Region. She also became the first Black supervisor in Ferguson Township.
Ward 2 Supervisor Hilary Caldwell, who also began her first term in January, resigned in July because she moved outside of the ward and was no longer eligible to serve. The remaining board members appointed Thompson to fill the vacancy.
