Latest news with #WaynesboroBoroughCouncil
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Waynesboro leadership changes follow death of long-time mayor
A new mayor and Waynesboro Borough Council member were sworn in May 27. The leadership changes follow the death of long-time Mayor Richard Starliper on May 16. Dade Royer is the new mayor, and Todd Blake replaces him as Ward 1 councilman. Both men were candidates for those positions in the May 20 primary, which came just days after Starliper passed away. Their appointments at the special council meeting on May 27 run through the end of this year. They also are the presumptive winners of the November general election to continue to serve in terms that will begin in 2026. Both received the Republican nominations for the seats in the primary election in which there were no Democratic candidates. A community loss: Waynesboro's 'Mayor Dick' passes away It's been a bittersweet week and a half for Royer, with Starliper passing away at age 87 just days before he won the primary election. 'I will greatly miss him,' said Royer, who called Starliper a friend and mentor. Starliper had been mayor since Jan. 2, 2006. He served on borough council from Jan. 16, 1980, to Jan. 4, 1988, and again from Jan. 2, 1995, to Jan. 7, 2002. 'Mayor Starliper, affectionately known as 'Dick' to many in the community, was a dedicated public servant whose leadership, integrity and compassion helped to shape the rejuvenation of our community,' said a statement from the borough announcing his death. Royer was sworn in by Starliper seven years ago when he filled the Ward 1 council seat vacancy. At the meeting, Royer resigned from his council seat and was appointed mayor, Blake was named to the council seat, then both men were sworn in by Franklin County Judge Mary Beth Shank. Councilman Michael Cermak was elected to replace Royer as vice president. 'I'll always do my best to serve the citizens of Waynesboro,' said Royer, who also thanked council members for their confidence in him and voters, both Republicans and Democrats, who voted for him in the primary election. On the Republican ticket, he received 513 votes – 82% – to outpoll Douglas Carranza, who got 110 votes. Royer also got 87% of the Democratic write-ins, so his name will be listed on the ballot as a candidate for both parties in November. 'I'm happy to be here and ready to work,' said Blake, who also serves on the borough authority, which oversees the water and sewer systems. In the primary election, Blake defeated Janeen McChesney 119-to-76 on the Republican ticket to advance to the general election for the Ward 1 seat. Other candidates for borough council seats moving forward after the primary are Brandon Boldyga, who defeated Ascohi Helman 123-to-42 in Ward 2 and Randy Schriver, who was the only candidate in Ward 3. Both are Republicans and no Democrats ran for the seats. This article originally appeared on Waynesboro Record Herald: New Waynesboro mayor, councilman sworn in
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
A community loss: Waynesboro's ‘Mayor Dick' passes away
This story has been updated with a photo gallery. If it was important to Waynesboro, Richard Starliper was there – ribbon-cuttings, ground-breakings, parades, ceremonies, meetings and countless other events. In the community: Shovel ready: PA SITES grant awarded for final Wharf Road Industrial Park acreage The man who served as the face and spirit of the community for nearly two decades as mayor passed away May 16. He was known as 'Mayor Dick' to many and, on social media, one person called him 'Mr. Waynesboro.' 'It is with deep sadness that the Borough of Waynesboro announces the passing of Mayor Richard 'Dick' Starliper. Mayor Starliper passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, at the age of 87,' says an announcement from the borough. 'Mayor Starliper, affectionately known as 'Dick' to many in the community, was a dedicated public servant whose leadership, integrity and compassion helped to shape the rejuvenation of our community,' the announcement says. 'He was the quintessential 'Small Town Mayor' often seen in parades, at ribbon-cutting ceremonies for local businesses, chamber of commerce mixers and numerous community functions.' 'Dick was a friend, a neighbor and an advocate for our community and police department,' said C. Harold Mumma, council president. 'Dick was a wealth of institutional knowledge, and he shared that knowledge throughout his years of service. He was a friend, and a trusted adviser who loved this community,' said Jason Stains, borough manager. 'His service has left a lasting impact on Waynesboro.' Starliper's public service began more than 45 years ago. He served on Waynesboro Borough Council from Jan. 16, 1980, to Jan. 4, 1988, and again from Jan. 2, 1995, to Jan. 7, 2002. His tenure on council included stints as president and vice president. He served as mayor from Jan. 2, 2006, until his passing. He was a past president of the Cumberland-Franklin Counties Boroughs Association; a member of the Pennsylvania State Mayors' Association and the Association of Mayors of the Boroughs of the State of Pennsylvania; and a current board member for the Pennsylvania State Boroughs Association. On Aug. 25, 2020, Starliper received the Albert N. 'Abbie' Montecalvo Award for longevity service from the Pennsylvania State Mayor's Association for his service to the Borough of Waynesboro. 'It's a great joy for me and the community at large to receive this award," he said at the time. At the 2017 Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs annual conference, he received the Carol Sambol Award, given mayors, council members, secretaries, managers and treasurers who have completed 25 or more years of service. 'Not many borough officials are fortunate enough to serve 25-plus years. I consider myself to be one of the lucky few to serve a community like Waynesboro,' Starliper said. Starliper also started the Franklin County Mayor's Association where, 'all the mayors of Franklin County review their areas on a quarterly basis on how we can help each other to get the job done," Starliper explained in an article in The Record Herald. After he announced he would not run for a sixth term as mayor in 2025, local artist Nicole Troup was commissioned to paint a portrait of him to hang in council chambers in borough hall. The portrait was unveiled in December 2024 and the image was used in the borough's announcement of his death. Starliper's community involvement was not limited to government positions. He was a longtime active member of Faith United Methodist Church, Waynesboro, and a member of the Waynesboro Lions Club, holding leadership roles at the local, regional and zone levels, according to his Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home obituary. A 1955 graduate of Waynesboro High School, Starliper served in the United States Army Reserves and was called to active duty in the during the Korean War. Following his discharge, he was reinstated with the United States Army Reserves 357th Transportation Company, Greencastle. Starliper worked at First National Bank of Waynesboro and First National Bank of Fairfield and in the accounting department of Landis Tool Co. He and his wife, Nancy (Kennedy) Starliper, were married on April 21, 1963. She died on Aug. 6, 1998. He is survived by two daughters and two granddaughters. Services will be held at 11 a.m. May 22 in Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home, 50 S. Broad St., Waynesboro with Rev. Steve Sheldon officiating. Burial be in Green Hill Cemetery, Waynesboro, where military graveside honors will be conducted by the honor guard of Charles Nitterhouse VFW1599, Chambersburg. The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. May 21 in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Waynesboro Summer Jubilee, Inc., 118 Walnut Street Suite 111, Waynesboro, PA 17268 or at This article originally appeared on Waynesboro Record Herald: Waynesboro Mayor Richard 'Dick' Starliper dies
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Primary election is May 20. Learn who is running for Waynesboro Borough Council in Ward 2
Pennsylvania's primary election is May 20 and one of the positions on the ballot is a Second Ward seat on Waynesboro Borough Council. The Second Ward is north of Main Street and west of Church Street. Brandon Boldyga and Ascohi Helman are running in the primary for the opportunity to be the Republican candidate in the November general election. More election information: Learn about First Ward Waynesboro Borough Council candidates No Democrats are running for borough council. We asked the GOP candidates in the borough council race to respond to a few questions via email. Below are their responses, listed in the order their names appear on the ballot. Their responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length. Age: 39 Town: Born in Annapolis, Maryland; Raised in Deale, Maryland; Live in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania (Ward 2) Education: Bachelors in Urban and Regional Planning from Frostburg State University (2007) Professional Experience: Department of Defense (DoD), 2008-2013; Town of Myersville Planning and Zoning Administrator, 2013-2025; Waynesboro Shade Tree Commission, 2020-2022; Waynesboro Zoning Hearing Board, 2022-2025 I decided to seek this office to use my skills and knowledge of municipal government to serve my local community. In my opinion, the top three issues facing the Borough of Waynesboro are: 1. Funding road and street maintenance projects 2. Funding public safety programs and public safety staffing for both fire and police protection 3. Smart growth and downtown redevelopment These are the predominant issues raised while campaigning thus far. Citizens should vote for me because I am the most qualified candidate to serve Waynesboro Ward 2. I have 13 years of municipal government administration experience and currently serve on the Waynesboro Zoning Hearing Board. I understand the parameters of municipal government and the issues that municipal officials face. If elected, I will do everything in my power to pursue the best interests of the residents of Ward 2 and the Borough of Waynesboro. I pledge to follow core conservative values and fiscally responsible practices, putting the Borough in a position to succeed moving forward. Age: 59 Town: Waynesboro Education: Experienced in utilizing computers and information technology within the context of business and management. This expertise encompasses a thorough understanding of how digital tools and systems can enhance operational efficiency, data management, and overall strategic decision-making in a business environment. Professional Experience: Proficient in Internet Explorer, Microsoft Office, Google Drive, and Google Calendar, with strong expertise in spreadsheet applications. I excel in navigating computer and IT applications in a business environment, consistently delivering tasks efficiently and punctually. I have effectively managed all aspects of personnel functions, including staff supervision, hiring practices, store policies, and employee terminations when necessary. I have established a stellar reputation with customers as a knowledgeable, capable, and approachable professional. My decision to seek Borough Council office stems from my deep belief in the transformative power of local government to enhance lives and strengthen our community. I am driven by a passion for making Waynesboro a better place for everyone, and I view serving on the borough council as a meaningful opportunity to bring that vision to life. 1. Economic Development & Job Creation: It is essential for the Borough to take proactive steps in attracting new businesses and supporting the growth of existing enterprises. This can be achieved by creating incentives for small and medium-sized businesses and promoting Waynesboro as an ideal location for investment. By focusing on technology, manufacturing, and tourism, we can stimulate job growth, reduce unemployment, and enhance the overall economic vitality of the community, ultimately improving the quality of life for all residents. 2. Infrastructure & Public Services: The foundation of any thriving community lies in its infrastructure. Waynesboro must prioritize the maintenance and enhancement of its roads, public transit systems, and utilities to ensure they meet the needs of a growing population. Additional investment in modern public services such as waste management, water supply, and emergency services, is crucial. Upgrading these systems not only supports current residents but also attracts potential newcomers by demonstrating our commitment to a safe and efficient living environment. 3. Community Engagement & Planning: Active participation from residents in shaping the Borough's future is paramount. Developing avenues for community engagement, such as public forums, surveys, and workshops, will enable residents to voice their opinions and contribute to planning initiatives. I firmly believe that I would excel in this position for several reasons, most notably my unwavering commitment to high expectation in every role I accomplish. If granted this opportunity, I will wholeheartedly represent the interests of all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds or perspectives. I am dedicated to ensuring that every voice is both heard and truly valued. My pursuit of excellence uniquely positions me as a strong candidate for this role. In previous positions, I have consistently thrived in dynamic and high-pressure environments, delivering remarkable results. I have fostered effective working relationships with colleagues, which contributes to a professional and positive team atmosphere. Furthermore, my optimistic approach and customer service skills enable me to adapt swiftly and efficiently to a variety of business challenges. Polls will be open for in-person voting from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on May 20. Mail-in and absentee ballots must be returned to the Franklin County Voter Registration Office by 8 p.m. on May 20. Ballots must physically be in the office by that time, a May 20 postmark is not sufficient. More election information: Learn about who is running for mayor of Waynesboro Only registered Republicans and Democrats can vote in the primary election. Additional information, including sample ballots, can be found on the Franklin County website. This article originally appeared on Waynesboro Record Herald: Brandon Boldyga, Ascohi Helman running for Waynesboro Borough Council
