Shubendu Singh sworn in to fill Ward One vacancy on Franklin Township Council

Shubendu Singh was unanimously chosen by the Franklin Township Council on Feb. 10, 2026, to fill the Ward One vacancy left when Councilman Ed Patasnik resigned to become the state director of environmental protection.

Councilman Embarrison moved to nominate Singh and a second was recorded; the clerk called the roll and every council member voted yes. After the vote, Mayor Kramer administered the oath of office and invited Singh to address the assembly.

Singh told the council he accepted the office “with a deep sense of gratitude and humility,” described losing his home in a recent fire and thanked neighbors who helped his family. He said public service runs in his family and pledged to focus on accountability, thoughtful decision‑making, equity and inclusion. “Access to essential services must be homogeneous across our community,” he said, adding he would be available and accessible to residents.

Council members then assigned Singh to council liaisons and standing committees vacated by the prior member. The council also recognized several visiting dignitaries at the start of the meeting.

The appointment was made during a work‑session regular meeting at the municipal building and followed the party process required when a council resignation creates a vacancy: the party named three candidates, and the full council chose one.