CURWENSVILLE: Curwensville Borough Council voted Monday night to move forward with hiring a full-time police officer, bringing resolution to an issue that had been delayed at the previous council meeting due to confusion surrounding civil service procedures.

Council had initially paused action on the hire after receiving inaccurate information related to the Civil Service Commission process. That confusion was later attributed to statements made by Reese Wells, a member of the commission, who subsequently submitted his resignation. Council unanimously accepted Wells’ resignation during Monday’s meeting.

Police Chief Rodney Witherite addressed council to clarify the situation, stating that the borough’s civil service process had been properly followed from the outset.

According to Witherite, borough officials and legal counsel reviewed all documentation earlier in the day, including timelines, appointments, oaths, and procedural requirements. He said the review confirmed that the process met all legal and regulatory standards.

To reinforce that finding, the Civil Service Commission held a meeting prior to the council session to reorganize and formally re-certify the existing eligibility list. Following that action, borough council accepted the certified hiring list and approved the appointment of Joseph Witherite as a full-time police officer.

Joseph Witherite had previously been hired by the borough as a part-time officer during the Oct. 13, 2025 council meeting.

Chief Witherite said the hire represents a meaningful step forward for the department, which has faced staffing and organizational challenges for years.

In addition to police matters, council also conducted other routine borough business during the meeting. Members reviewed and approved standard expenditures, addressed administrative items tied to borough operations, and heard updates from borough staff. Council also provided an opportunity for public comment and discussed upcoming municipal needs and priorities moving into the new year.

Council officials emphasized the importance of transparency and proper procedure as the borough continues efforts to strengthen public services, particularly in public safety.

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