Mark Arena Sworn as New City Councilor

Mark Arena is the newest member of the Medford City Council.

City Clerk Ed Finn swore in Arena, who replaces Stephanie Burke, last night at the council's meeting. Burke resigned last week after her appointment as the city's budget and personnel director was approved by the state legislature and Gov. Deval Patrick.

Arena came in 8th in the 2009 city council elections, making him the choice to conclude Burke's two-year term.

After being sworn in, Arena paid tribute to Richard Lee, the city's former budget director who died in December. He went on to say he would look to be a positive voice on the council and work in interest in people of Medford.

"I will always do what my conscience dictates," Arena said.

Arena works to the mail services department at Tufts University and has previously run for  city council in 2007 and 2009.