By JEFF STITT
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A Charleroi councilman abruptly resigned from his elected post Thursday by leaving a letter that simply stated, “I quit.”
During Thursday’s business meeting, council unanimously accepted the resignation of Councilman Randy DiPiazza, who did not attend the meeting.
Council President Jerry Jericho said he was not expecting DiPiazza’s resignation, but when he arrived at the borough building Thursday he found DiPiazza’s handwritten letter on his desk. The letter only stated, “I quit,” followed by DiPiazza’s signature.
Jericho said he has not had a chance to speak directly with DiPiazza about why he resigned, but said he “respects” his decision.
“We had our falling outs and our disagreements at times but that’s what this room is all about,” Jericho said. “I try to let those things go when I walk out of here. I respect (DiPiazza) and know that he wants what is best for Charleroi.
“I can’t speak to why he made this decision.”
Council members Larry Celaschi and Jody Cheplic both spoke highly of DiPiazza.
“He is going to be hard to replace,” Cheplic said. “Those are big shoes to fill.”
Celaschi echoed Cheplic’s sentiments. “We had a councilperson that wore this town on his sleeve,” Celaschi said. “He bled Charleroi. I worked with him on many projects. I know him as a hands-on councilperson. He was here during the day and was somebody who was available 24/7.
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