After interviewing six potential candidates and taking two votes for a seat on West Middlesex Area School Board, directors agreed Thursday to appoint Richard Turner to the term.

Turner, 47, of Lackawannock Township was elected in a 5-1 vote to fill the position left vacant by former director Connie David. Directors Thomas Hubert, Arlene Repko, Dale Shrawder, Walter Gelesky and Kevin Kirk voted for Turner. Director Warden Burger cast his vote for Dr. Paul Chlpka. Directors Marshall Campbell and Glen Allen Jr. were absent.

Turner is the owner of the financial consulting firm Turner and Associates and the president of Technical Education Solutions, both in Sharon.

He said he wants to serve on the board because he realized he can "coerce people into getting things done." Through his work with the Shenango Valley Initiative, Turner said he also realized he enjoys the limelight.

Turner told directors about his various political connections, including past work with state Rep. Rod Wilt, Sugar Grove Township, R-17th District, and U.S. Rep. Phil English, Erie, R-3rd District.

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