This is Pennsylvania Local Government Week. It should not be the only time we celebrate and thank our local elected officials. Many evenings, while most of us are at home with family and friends, those who have stepped up to run for a local office, head to public meetings throughout our boroughs, townships, school districts, cities, and counties. They are giving their time and expertise to keep delivering the municipal services, policies, and public infrastructure upon which their constituents rely. When things go well, nobody notices. But when things go wrong, they usually hear about it.
It’s a tough job. Demand for local services often exceeds the budget and personnel to deliver fully. Unfunded mandates and legacy costs often force decisions to limit or defer newer, high-value public investments. It is understandable why each year, fewer and fewer people choose to run for office. While some might lack the time and interest, others might simply not understand what local municipalities can impact or what they cannot.
To help change that trend, the Blair County Chamber launched what it called the “Public Service Academy.” With many local positions going unfilled, this 6-week program was designed to be both a call to action for those considering a run for office and an opportunity to learn more about what various elected positions are all about. The inaugural class was welcomed in 2023 with several participants moving on to serve in local government positions.
While some argue Pennsylvania has too many municipalities and should do things differently, the benefit of a hyper local government structure is the strong connection it brings between constituents and those who serve. Our elected officials are our neighbors, friends or clients. They understand the issues we all face because they face them as well. That knowledge brings understanding, empathy and response.
There is always room for improvement. Greater efficiency and shared government services are common goals. Many municipalities already work closely with their neighbors to achieve these goals.
Despite the challenges and perceived shortcomings, local government works. But only if we have people willing to serve. For those of you considering a run, do it. Check in with the Chamber’s Public Policy Academy or talk with your municipal leadership for more information. For those already in local government, we see you and say thank you. Thanks for the sidewalk talks, restaurant conversations and yes, even for the formal public meetings when hot button issues cause us all to pack the room. It’s not easy, but it is important.
Stephen McKnight
President and CEO
The Altoona Blair County Development Corporation
