OREM — Stepping up to serve is nothing new for the newest member of Orem's City Council, Margaret Black, who was chosen Monday night.

Black, a homemaker and piano teacher with six grown children, has been a volunteer neighborhood activist. She is looking forward to her new council position.

"I like to make things better," Black said. "When I see a need, I like to meet it."

Black was appointed by the Orem City Council to replace Stephen Sandstrom, who resigned in December after being elected to Utah's House of Representatives in November, defeating incumbent Jim Ferrin.

After an interview process with the 10 candidates last Monday, the City Council held a closed-door meeting at 5 p.m. Monday to discuss the candidates. The council then made its announcement at 6 p.m. during a 10-minute meeting.

"We were so impressed with each of you," Orem Mayor Jerry Washburn told the candidates. "All of you could have succeeded. Thank you for being here."

Black and her husband, Dennis, have lived in Orem for 29 years, although Black is originally from Provo.

She has served as a neighborhood chairwoman for the Orchard North neighborhood for three years, as well as a coordinator of the neighborhood CERT (Certified Emergency Response Teams) program.

Black also has a degree in elementary education from Brigham Young University.

"I have a taste of what it's like to meet the needs of concerned citizens," she said.

Dennis Black said his wife is organized and sticks to issues. He said he was supportive of her applying for the position and will continue to support her new political position.

"It'll take time," he said of the new job, "but we'll adjust."

The time required to be a council member varies, depending on the issues facing the council, Members also receive a stipend of about $800 a month, said Jim Reams, Orem city manager.

Black began her homework Monday night with the agenda for today's meeting.

Prior to the 6 p.m. council meeting, there will be a small reception in the Orem City Center at 56 N. State for residents to meet Black and her family.

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