Four candidates seeking two spots on North Charleroi council

North Charleroi voters will head to the polls in November to fill two open seats on council, with a four-way race that includes two incumbents and two challengers offering distinct visions for the borough’s future.

Running for the two available spots are incumbent Joseph E. Duche (Democrat), Edwin J. Uhutch (Democrat), incumbent Fred Schwalb (Republican) and Amanda Santoro (Republican). Voters may choose up to two candidates.

North Charleroi is facing important decisions around infrastructure, public engagement and neighborhood revitalization. Whether voters choose the steady hand of experience or opt for new energy, the makeup of council will shape the borough’s trajectory in the coming years.

Duche (D) Duche is running on his track record of securing more

Joseph E. Duche

than $100,000 in grants for comm unity projects, including the long-awaited playground upgrade. He says the borough can’t keep relying on tax increases and must focus on outside funding opportunities.

Duche is also looking ahead to major infrastructure upgrades, especially sewer line replacements, and wants to coordinate those efforts with street paving schedules to reduce long-term costs. He sees blighted properties as an opportunity for renewal and says attracting developers to build new single-family homes could help reverse the decades-long trend of population decline. “I’m more focused on generational things,” Duche said. “These investments will last for decades.”

Santoro (R) First-time candidate Amanda Santoro is focused on creating a more open, responsive and future-focused council. If

Amanda Santoro

elected, she says she will work to improve communication between the borough and its residents, making meetings more transparent and encouraging regular dialogue.

She also wants to prioritize support for police, fire and EMS services, while ensuring public spaces are clean and safe. Santoro advocates for smart, responsible growth that supports local businesses, protects taxpayer dollars, and maintains the smalltown character residents value. “My goal is to represent all residents and help guide North Charleroi toward a strong and sustainable future,” she said.

Schwalb (R) Councilman Fred Schwalb is seeking reelection on a platform of infrastructure improvement and community

Fred Schwalb

revitalization. He says keeping up with road paving is a constant priority, but equally important is restoring the sense of connection that once defined the borough.

Schwalb is pushing for the return of community events like street fairs and holiday celebrations and hopes to organize a Community Day once the new playground opens next spring. “Back in the day, everybody came out for events — we don’t have that anymore,” he said. “Without the people, you don’t have the community.”

Uhutch (D) Challenger Ed Uhutch is centering his campaign on fixing what he sees as long-ignored basics. He says residents are tired of voicing concerns that never get addressed, especially when it comes to storm drains caving in, damaged roads being covered with cones or plates and borough-owned properties being neglected.

Uhutch believes council members need to be more visible, more accountable and more responsive to residents. “We need a council that answers to the public,” he said. “People come to meetings with real complaints, and nothing gets done. That has to change.”

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.