Pennsylvania Honors Local Governments at 29th Excellence Awards Ceremony

Recognition for Pennsylvania's Local Government Excellence

In a ceremony that highlights the commitment of Pennsylvania's municipalities to community service, 19 officials and local governments were celebrated for their outstanding contributions. The annual Governor’s Awards for Local Government Excellence, held on Pennsylvania Local Government Day, honored their efforts to enhance public services and improve local communities.

Governor Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, through Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger, commended the dedication of these entities in making Pennsylvania a thriving place to live and work. Nine individuals, alongside three counties, six municipalities, and one organization, were recognized for their exemplary service to their communities.

"The individuals, municipalities, counties, and organizations that we are honoring today work passionately to 'get stuff done' by improving public services and making their communities better," stated Governor Shapiro. "Their collective work has made a difference in the health, safety, and quality of life of families and individuals across Pennsylvania."

The event, which coincides with Pennsylvania Local Government Day, underscored the importance of active local governance and the significant contributions of community leaders. Lieutenant Governor Davis emphasized the importance of recognizing those who tirelessly serve for the betterment of their communities.

The Department’s Governor’s Center for Local Government Services annually organizes this day to acknowledge local governments and officials who work to enhance the quality of life in their areas. More details about this year’s honorees can be found on DCED’s website.

Honorees in Local Government

The individuals recognized include:

• Dennis R. Arthur, Sr., Commissioner, Tinicum Township – Delaware County
• Tammy Firda, Council Member, Lincoln Borough, and President, Steel Rivers COG – Allegheny County
• Steven D. Hess, Sr., Supervisor, North Centre Township – Columbia County
• Judith Kording, Assistant Manager, Shaler Township – Allegheny County
• Centrice Martin, Manager, Ferguson Township – Centre County
• Zachary Norwood, Planning Director – Crawford County
• William Ross, Administrator, Lower Saucon Authority – Northampton County
• Diane Schaefer, Borough Manager, Youngwood Township – Westmoreland County
• Lori Vargo Haffner, County Commissioner – Northampton County

Recognized Entities and Initiatives

The ceremony also celebrated the following entities for their initiatives:

• Building Community Partnerships - Wright Township, Luzerne County
• Fiscal Accountability and Best Management Practices - City of Lancaster Home Rule Study Commission, Lancaster County
• Fiscal Accountability and Best Management Practices - Local Government Academy, Allegheny County
• Health and Wellness Initiatives - Indiana County Office of Planning and Development, Indiana County
• Innovative Community/Governmental Initiatives - Milton Borough, Northumberland County
• Innovative Planning and Sound Land Use Practices - City of Saint Marys, Elk County
• Intergovernmental Cooperation - Westmoreland County Department of Planning and Development, Westmoreland County
• Promoting Community/Economic Revitalization - Pocono Township, Monroe County
• Responding to Adversity - Tioga County, Tioga County
• Technology Advancements - Borough of Donora, Washington County

Additionally, the City of Scranton received the 2024 DCED ‘Secretary’s Award for Municipal Excellence’ for its significant efforts in fostering community partnerships and economic growth. The city has been recognized for its proactive steps in achieving an investment-grade credit rating and supporting small businesses with over $5 million in investments.

DCED Secretary Rick Siger remarked, “Scranton’s forward momentum perfectly illustrates the spirit of this award – highlighting municipalities where everyone works together to help the place that they call home reach its full potential.”

To learn more about Local Government Day and the contributions of Pennsylvania's local governments, visit the DCED website. Stay informed by following the agency on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.