Newcomer Martha Howlett Joins Yardley Council

Howlett, a 35-year-old actuary, is one of several new faces on the Yardley Borough Council.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:05pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty borough council meeting room, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and casting long shadows across the empty chairs and table, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and transition.The tranquil setting of a local borough council meeting reflects the changing dynamics and priorities of Yardley's civic leadership.Yardley Today

Martha Howlett, a 35-year-old actuary from Fairfax, Virginia, is one of the newest members of the Yardley Borough Council in Pennsylvania. Howlett, who moved to Yardley in 2024 after living in Lower Makefield Township, took office in January and is eager to work as part of the team to continue the council's efforts to budget responsibly, reduce flood risk, invest in walkability, historic buildings and parks, and support special events and local businesses.

Why it matters

Yardley Borough Council has seen a significant turnover, with most members being relatively new to the council. Howlett's appointment as a newcomer to both the council and the borough itself reflects the changing dynamics and priorities of local government in the community.

The details

Howlett, who previously worked as a paralegal in the insurance industry, is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and a Certified Enterprise Risk Manager. In addition to her council duties, she volunteers as a crisis counselor and elementary school tutor. Howlett is also an active member of the community, enjoying long walks on the Delaware Canal Path, book clubs, and amateur astronomy.

  • Howlett took office in January 2026.
  • Howlett had been attending Borough Council meetings for over a year before joining the council.

The players

Martha Howlett

A 35-year-old actuary who is one of the newest members of the Yardley Borough Council, having taken office in January 2026. Howlett is also a volunteer crisis counselor and elementary school tutor.

Caroline Thompson

The former council president who has now become the borough's mayor.

David Appelbaum

The new council president, replacing Caroline Thompson.

Michelle Sharer

The new council vice president.

Kim Segal-Morris

A longtime member of the Yardley Borough Council who remains on the board.

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What they’re saying

“I got involved pretty fast. I had been in the audience for over a year. It's nice to be on the other side. Everyone is eager to work as a team.”

— Martha Howlett, Yardley Borough Council Member

What’s next

Howlett will continue to work with the Yardley Borough Council to address the community's priorities, including budgeting, flood mitigation, infrastructure improvements, and support for local businesses and events.

The takeaway

The influx of new faces on the Yardley Borough Council, including relative newcomer Martha Howlett, signals a shift in the borough's leadership and a renewed focus on issues like fiscal responsibility, community development, and civic engagement.