After four unsuccessful nominations, Shenango Township supervisors Thursday filled the open seat on the board with Corinne "Keenie" Harrison, a resident of 15 years.

Before selecting Ms. Harrison, who lives on Wet Track Road, the supervisors voted down William Kuhn and Phyllis Williams and couldn't get a second to a nomination for Dana Wagner.

Before opening the floor to nominations, supervisor Chairman Larry Robinson said he thought the interviews, which were conducted Monday, were "decent. We had a few outstanding candidates."

Supervisor Charles Gilliland voted against the appointment.

The four supervisors interviewed seven hopefuls for the post, which must be filled by appointment because Supervisor Richard Flack won both open spots on the November ballot. Ms. Harrison will serve a one-year term.

Shenango is unique among Mercer County townships because it has five supervisors instead of three. Township voters decided in 2001 to expand the board.

Ms. Harrison is a physician billing specialist at Sharon Regional Health System, a position she has held since 1999. She is a graduate of Farrell High School and also of the former Sharon School of Business.

After appointing Ms. Harrison, Flack nominated Robert S. Sandora of Allen Lane to serve as alternate supervisor.

"He isn't well known," Flack said. "And he isn't a friend of anyone on this board."

Flack said that he had contacted Sandora and he is willing to serve as alternate in case of another vacancy on the board.

Gilliland said he appreciated the applications and the interest shown in the board vacancy.

"Stay interested," he said. "There are two positions opening in the next election. If you weren't appointed this time, run in the election."

Gilliland said he would like to see younger people run for election.

"We need younger people, around 25 years of age," he said. "They think differently than we do and have innovative ideas."

Robinson said those intending to announce their candidacy must file before Feb. 11.

You can e-mail Herald Staff Writer Amanda Smith-Teutsch at: ateutsch@sharonherald.com