Feb. 24, 2025 -- Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan today publicly introduced Dunmore Mayor Max Conway as his choice to succeed former Commissioner Matt McGloin, and called on the Lackawanna County Democratic Party Executive Committee to conduct an equally transparent, accountable process in filling the vacancy.

McGloin’s resignation is effective today. Under the county Home Rule Charter, the executive committee must present the county Court of Common Pleas with the names of three potential replacements by Friday. The court then will make an appointment from that list. The new commissioner will fill out the remainder of McGloin’s term, through 2027.

McGloin and Gaughan, Democrats, overwhelmingly were elected in November 2023, and took office in 2024. Gaughan today called on the executive committee to honor the will of those voters by embracing his selection to fill the vacancy.

“This is a matter of governance rather than politics,” Gaughan said. “It’s important that the committee conduct an open process and recommend someone who will continue the important government reforms that Matt and I had begun to implement.”

Conway said he is prepared to do that, and that he has done similar work as Dunmore’s mayor. Like the county, Dunmore has experienced financial problems that it is addressing with reforms, without sacrificing the government’s role in economic development and ensuring a high quality of life for borough residents.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible residents, business owners, and community leaders. Together, we’ve made real progress—working to revitalize downtown Dunmore, fighting blight, supporting our businesses, and improving public safety. We’ve attracted investments, strengthened connections, and tackled tough challenges like balancing public safety needs with limited resources. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, but I also see the opportunity to do more at the county level,” Conway said.