Glassport fills vacant council seat

Jennifer Stockett’s family has a history of public service.

By THOMAS LETURGEY
For the MVI

Glassport Borough has a new council member — and she has a distinct pedigree.

Council unanimously voted to appoint Jennifer Stockett to fill the seat left vacant by Amy Nabors’ resignation.

On Tuesday, Mayor Keith DiMarco swore Stockett in to office.

“I’ve lived in Glassport for seven years, but I’ve pretty much lived in the area my whole life,” Stockett said. “I was born and raised in Port Vue and my father was in politics for many years.”

Her father, Bryan R. Myers, retired as Port Vue’s police chief after a long career. He also served as Port Vue mayor and on the South Allegheny School Board before his death in 2020.

Stockett’s brother Bryan Myers is a Port Vue councilman.

Following her family’s footsteps into public service was an easy decision.

“It’s always been something I wanted to do,” she said.

Stockett was one of four Glassport residents who applied for the open position. Residents Toni Cregan, James Humanic and Wendy Boor also applied.

Borough Council President Anthony Colecchi said Humanic withdrew his letter. Boor, who was in the audience Tuesday night, came up short for a seat on council in the Nov. 4 general election.

Paul Trunzo, Colecchi and Meghan Verse were reelected for four-year terms while Robert Miskanin ran unopposed for a two-year term.

Stockett, who is a teacher in the South Allegheny School District, said she wanted to run in the past election, but “didn’t want to step on any toes.” When Nabors resigned due to an increased commitment, she thought this was an ideal opportunity.

“My son (Gavin) is in college now; I have plenty of time,” she said.

A community volunteer, Stockett says she wants to work with council in any way she can and perhaps develop youth programs in the community. “To give these kids something to do.”

“Jennifer’s appointment has great potential for Glassport,” Colecchi said.

“She has great energy and a fresh perspective given her professional background. Council is excited to move Glassport forward with her on board.”

Building and public works updates

In other matters, Miskanin, chair of public works, said the borough received approval from the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to have sludge from the Kelly Run sewage plant taken to an alternative location. The borough had been tarping dumpsters of sludge at the plant until they had heard from the DEP.

Allegheny County officials will visit Glassport’s former borough building to check out asbestos concerns and other matters before discussion continues about its demolition, said Borough Manager Elaina Skiba. There was a water main break in the building and there are safety concerns about being in the building, she added.

Council also took action and discussed the following:

• Approved a motion to seek grants to demolish the former social hall at 701 Delaware Ave.

• Approved a motion to seek contract bids for the Municipal Building Light Project. They have budgeted $50,000 for the project; a mandatory pre-bid meeting will take place 1 p.m. Dec. 9, with the bid openings set for 1 p.m. Dec. 16.

• In his report, Councilman Dave Kowalski noted that trick or treat was a “huge success” with some 300 kids participating. “We are already looking forward to next year.”

• Colecchi said the Giant Eagle Mobile Market will now be a “permanent” addition in the borough, “according to Giant Eagle.” He reported that there had been “a steady stream” of customers” on a weekly basis.

• Glassport’s Christmas Parade and festivities are set for 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 29. Kowalski said new this year will be a live Nativity featuring a camel, sponsored by River City Church. Fireworks will cap off the festivities.

• Miskanin reported crews installed Christmas decorations and removed all military banners. Officials have noted that the existing military banners are worn and may need to be replaced before the next season. He noted that all of the Public Works trucks are prepared for fall and winter.

• During his senior center report, Trunzo said they gave out 150 meals during the annual turkey dinner event. “It’s our biggest one ever.”

• Council unanimously approved a motion to change the time of monthly meetings from 7 p.m. to 6 p.m.