McCouch Leaves As Longest-Serving Horsham Council President

HORSHAM TOWNSHIP, PA —It was the last meeting of the year. And the last meeting of Mark McCouch's 20 years on the Horsham Township Council.

As McCouch read proclamations and honored fellow council colleagues for their service during the December meeting, his name then came up for recognition.

"I hate to say goodbye to myself," said McCouch, who lost the Nov. 7 general election to Democrat Ellen Zschunke by 22 votes.

So Council Vice President William Whiteside did the honors, presenting a proclamation to the township resident of 40 years for his two decades on the board.

"It's been my privilege to serve with you," said Whiteside, now the longest-tenured council member.

Horsham Township honored McCouch and two other councilmen for their service at the council's last meeting of 2023 last month.

"(McCouch) has provided leadership, and helped establish plans for the air station, parks, open space, and our township buildings," Whiteside read from the proclamation. "He always remained patient and understanding. He totally exemplifies a noble endeavor. We recognize him for 20 years of outstanding leadership and dedicated service."

Township Manager Bill Walker also presented McCouch with a plaque for being the longest-serving council president in Horsham Township history.

"You've really done a good job," Walker said. "It's really shown for our residents too. You've been professional and respectful to our residents. You've been a very good president."

McCouch talked about his tenure.

"It's been a great 20 years. I have no regrets, none whatsoever," McCouch said. "It does hit home."

McCouch thanked the council and former council members, township staff, the engineer, and the township solicitor.

"I can't do this alone," McCouch said. "The township is run well. It makes this job so much easier. We work things out. I know that will continue. It's been a great 20 years. I've enjoyed every minute of it."

McCouch took time to recognize the two new Democrats — Zschunke and Samatha Slaff —who are joining the Republican-majority council.

"Welcome Ellen, I wish you well and I know that you and Samantha will do well," he said.

Both were expected to take the oath of office at the township's reorganization meeting Tuesday night.