NORWICH – A month after the city’s First Ward alderman seat was left vacant, the Norwich Common Council revealed its pick.

Newly-appointed Alderman Bryan McCracken, 26, was sworn into the position during Tuesday’s meeting. His appointment follows the departure of former Alderman Robert Carey, who tendered his resignation in July.

McCracken, a two-year city resident, has also served on the Norwich Planning Commission since 2011. He has played a role in making recommendations regarding a recent zone change and in the pending development of an affordable housing complex in the State Street neighborhood. He currently has a hand in updating the city’s comprehension plan.

While still a political newcomer, McCracken’s background in planning – which includes a master’s degree in historic preservation planning from Cornell University and experience in working with the historic preservation planning board in the City of Ithaca – brings ample experience and ideas to the council, said Mayor Joseph Maiurano.

“We were looking for a little more diversity and I think he’s going to bring that to the council,” the mayor said. “I have been very impressed by him and the work he’s done. He has good experience in planning and other areas that will help us ... it’s good to get someone young on the council who has that type of experience.”