By Deb Dawson, Special Writer
Republicans took control of the Borough Council as incumbent Steve Szabo and newcomer Dayna Camacho won the two three-year seats available in Tuesday’s election.
Republicans will hold four of the six council seats.
Councilman Szabo received 1,057 votes; Ms. Camacho had 980. Democrat Harry Bugal garnered 775, and, Councilman Ed Komoroski, a Democrat, received 733. Of the 5,615 eligible voters in Manville, 1,848 votes were cast.
The lead-in to the election was contentious with both sides trading barbs and accusations. The need for redevelopment of Rustic Mall was something all were concerned about, however. That issue will be addressed at the Nov. 10 council meeting.
Councilman Szabo brought it up again Monday night.
“I want to thank the people of Manville for putting their faith in me,” he said. “ I’m going to do the best that I can for them for the next three years. The first thing I want to do is get the Rustic Mall taken care of and get senior housing, 55-plus, put in there; possibly put a bowling alley there for people, seniors and kids, to occupy their time.”
Ms. Camacho, who is president of the Manvilel Republican Club, said, “I would like to thank the Manville community for supporting myself and Steve. I’m looking forward to making some positive changes to help move Manville forward. I plan to stabilize taxes and apply for extraordinary aid so our taxes don’t increase.”
“We fought a good fight,” Mr. Bugal said in his concession. “We told the facts and nothing more. I would like to thank everyone for believing in me, especially my amazing wife. I would also like to thank all the supporters for their valiant efforts. I would like to congratulate the winning candidates and wish them well in office.
“Manville needs good and successful leaders. Remember, successful people will always build each other up. They motivate, inspire and push each other. I hope the winners show these tactics in their terms.”
Councilman Komoroski could not be reached for comment.
There were three three-year seats open on the Board of Education. They will be filled by incumbents Jeanne Lombardino, who received 855 votes, Heidi Alles, who received 711 votes, and write-in candidate Branden Agans.
Also receiving write-in votes was Bill Evans.
Board member Valerie Frank chose not to run again.

