Montco Dems nominate Temple VP for commissioners board
Montgomery County Democrats have nominated a Temple University administrator to fill a vacancy on the county's board of commissioners left by state Attorney General-elect Josh Shapiro.
Montgomery County Democrats have nominated a Temple University administrator to fill a vacancy on the county's board of commissioners left by state Attorney General-elect Josh Shapiro.
Commissioner Valerie Arkoosh said she and Democratic committee chairman Joe Foster submitted a letter to the county judges Monday recommending Ken Lawrence Jr., Temple's vice president for alumni relations. If approved, it is believed, he would be the county's first African American commissioner.
The 22 county judges ultimately will make the selection. In addition to taking a recommendation from the party of a departing commissioner, the judges can consider individuals who submit their own names.
Shapiro, who is stepping down with three years left in his term as commissioner, will take office this month as Pennsylvania attorney general. His resignation will be effective Jan. 16.
The county judges will meet to interview candidates on Jan. 22. Court Administrator Michael Kehs declined to comment Monday on how many names had been submitted, or who they were. Interested candidates can continue to submit their names to the court through Jan. 18.
Lawrence, 45, of Plymouth Meeting, said by email Monday that he was honored to be considered.
"I will respect the process the courts have laid out," he said. "I have discussed my interest with Chairwoman Arkoosh and the party."
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