One of the questions I hear most often is:
“What can the mayor actually help me with?”
It’s a great question.
The role of a Pennsylvania borough mayor is often misunderstood. Many people are surprised to learn that the office carries important responsibilities, but also clear legal limits.
My goal is simple: to help make local government a little easier to understand and a little easier to navigate.
If you need help but aren’t sure where to begin, you’re in the right place.
You Don’t Have to Figure it out Alone
Let’s be honest, local government can be confusing.
You shouldn’t have to know which board, commission, department, or official is responsible before asking for help.
If I can help you directly, I will.
If someone else is better equipped to assist you, I’ll help point you in the right direction.
Sometimes the most valuable thing I can do is simply help you understand the process and connect you with the people who can best assist you.
Here’s How I Can Help
- Listen to your questions, concerns, and ideas.
- Help explain how Borough government works.
- Help connect you with the appropriate Borough department, official, or community resource.
- Support public safety and maintain a close working relationship with the Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department.
- Represent East Petersburg at community events, regional meetings, and official functions.
- Recognize the outstanding people, businesses, volunteers, and organizations that make our community special.
- Share information and updates through the Digital Office of the Mayor and my community communications.
Understanding My Role
One of the most important things I can do is be honest about what I can’t do.
As mayor, I do not make every decision for the Borough.
For example, I cannot:
- Pass ordinances
- Vote as a member of Borough Council
- Approve or deny zoning or land development applications
- Direct the day-to-day operations of the Borough
- Supervise Borough employees
- Make decisions that belong to Borough Council, the Borough Manager, boards, commissions, or other officials
Every part of Borough government has its own responsibilities. Respecting those roles helps ensure decisions are made fairly, legally, and transparently.
Working Together
Good local government depends on people working together.
The mayor, Borough Council, borough staff, boards, commissions, emergency services, community organizations, businesses, and residents all have different roles to play.
My job is not to take over the responsibilities of others. My job is to listen, communicate, represent the community, support public safety, and help people better understand how local government works.
When we respect each other’s roles and work together, we are better able to serve East Petersburg.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you aren’t sure where to start, that’s okay.
Start with me.
We’ll figure it out together.
The Digital Office of the Mayor 