New Britain council accepts tax collector's resignation, appoints Nicole Bercetti

The New Britain Borough Council on April 20 accepted the resignation of tax collector Elizabeth Ronke and appointed Nicole Bercetti as the borough's appointed tax collector until the next election, the borough solicitor said.

The solicitor outlined the resolution (listed in the meeting packet as resolution 2026-07), saying, "The resolution, which should be resolution 20 26 dash o 7, does 2 things. 1st, it accepts, miss Ronke's resignation. And 2nd, it would appoint, Nicole Bercetti who previously collected the borough's taxes." The solicitor said the appointment would remain in place until the next election unless the borough and township adopt a joint tax collection agreement that extends collection through the current four-year term.

Council members pressed for clarification on the practical effects. The solicitor said a joint tax collection district with New Britain Township would allow the appointed collector to serve through the end of the current term (through 2029) if the township adopts the matching agreement. The solicitor also noted the borough can adopt interim appointments on its own and can later adopt changes, saying council could "adopt a new resolution" if Nicole declines or circumstances change.

On concerns about financial control and missing payments, borough staff and the solicitor described a reconciliation and audit plan involving county tax claim authorities. The solicitor said the county and the tax-claim bureau are aware and that an audit will check payments and surety responsibilities. Clerk said checks recently found in borough possession raised questions about whether mailed payments were credited; the clerk reported, "Because right now, I just got 2 more checks today that were found." The solicitor added that surety coverage and dates are important for allocating responsibility.

The council adopted resolution 2026-07 by voice vote at the meeting. Immediately afterward the solicitor presented a second resolution to establish a joint tax collection district with the township; with a modification limiting the agreement to the end of the current term if desired, the council approved that resolution as well. The solicitor said the township must also adopt the joint-district agreement for the extension through 2029 to take effect.

Next steps included coordinating with the county on reconciliation, providing the bank with the appointment documentation, and preparing to hold another meeting if necessary to address any unexpected administrative issues.