Mandarino new city controller in Monessen

The former police chief posted a convincing win over independent candidate Ernie Telegraphis.

Retired city police chief John Mandarino defeated independent Ernie Telegraphis by a substantial margin in the Monessen city controller race.

According to unofficial results, Mandarino led with 1,401 votes, with Telegraphis having 442. “There’s been a lot of talk about this city, filing for bankruptcy,” Mandarino said. “And my personal opinion, if it’s in my power, I’m going to do everything I can to avoid the city filing bankruptcy. I’m going to make sure that you know that the mayor and council work towards a balanced budget, and they stay within that budget.”

The role carries a four-year term, running through January 2030. Incumbent Controller Rosalie Nicksich, elected in 2021, decided not to seek another term, leaving the position open.

No candidates filed in the May 20 primary, so the position was decided entirely by write-in votes. Mandarino emerged as the top choice on both Democratic and Republican tickets in the primary, receiving 113 and 55 votes, respectively, and securing his place on the November ballot as the nominee of both major parties.

“I’m honored to serve the city,” Mandarino said. “I’ve served the city in the past, and I’m looking forward to serving the city again, and then I appreciate all the support from everybody.”

Telegraphis was grateful for the support he received Tuesday.

“I thank all who voted for me since, as an independent, it’s hard to break the city stranglehold,” Telegraphis said. The city controller serves as Monessen’s fiscal watchdog, responsible for auditing receipts, verifying disbursements and maintaining financial accountability across departments.

The office, created under Pennsylvania’s Third Class City Code, operates independently from the mayor and council, providing an internal check on how taxpayer dollars are handled.