Michael Polak receives borough’s appreciation

Leaving council after three terms

By:Roger Alvarado
   After three consecutive terms on the Borough Council and a lifetime of service to the community, Councilman Michael Polak graciously ended his career as a public servant on Monday.
   Mr. Polak, 74, will be replaced on the council by Robert Petrone when it reconvenes in January.
   During Monday’s Borough Council meeting Mayor Angelo Corradino presented Mr. Polak with a commemorative plaque marking his years of hard work on behalf of the people of Manville and thanked him for faithfully serving the community for so many years.
   As Mr. Polak stood to accept the plaque, he was visibly moved by the thunderous applause that broke out throughout the municipal courtroom.
   "It’s been a pleasure being here helping everybody," Mr. Polak said.
   After the meeting, the Ravens Avenue resident said he now would focus his time on relaxing and getting away from the daily rigors of municipal government.
   "There have been a lot of positives," Mr. Polak said of his time on the council.
   However, after suffering a stroke two years ago, Mr. Polak admitted that it was probably time for him to move on.
   Mayor Corradino offered nothing but praise for Mr. Polak.
   "He was always a gentlemen whether you agreed or disagreed with him on any issue," Mayor Corradino said. "He was an asset to the community and was always there when needed and was never afraid to voice his opinion when he had to."