Feb 26, 2019 3 min read

With the start of a new year comes new opportunities and chances for Canonsburg to grow as a community. As your Mayor, I intend to work diligently with Borough Council to help our town continue to progress as much as possible. It goes without saying that my love for Canonsburg drives me to do whatever I can to make it the best it can be.

Thinking of everything that has happened over the last year gives me a sense of happiness and faith that we are moving in the right direction for our community. It has made me think of people who have also lived their lives helping Canonsburg prosper. One of those individuals who has recently passed comes to mind – Anthony L. Colazzio, previous Mayor of Canonsburg for 11-plus years, was especially one who had much to offer when it came to Canonsburg’s best interests. Mr. Colazzio was a veteran, a fireman, member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, director of the board of directors of Canonsburg Hospital, tax collector, member of the House of Representatives, founder of the Fourth of July Celebration here in Canonsburg, as well as a devoted family man. Tony was always involved with his community – he lived his life being a public servant to the people. His love of community and his hometown led him to offer up one of his best ideas in founding the Fourth of July celebration, which has grown into one of those largest and most elaborate celebrations in Pennsylvania. It is people like Mr. Colazzio who make our community what it is. He always had a smile and a kind word, and was always thinking about how he could contribute to our community, especially though his work with the House of Representatives and Mayor of Canonsburg. He will truly be missed, but will also always remembered for his hard work.

Volunteerism is dying, and it is up to us as individuals to think of what we have to offer to help our community, as well as our country. We should not expect things to be given to us, but instead earned through hard work and effort. Think about giving your time in some way. A perfect example of where your time could be given through the community is to volunteer as a fireman. Dedicated men and women are always needed and it is a rewarding and satisfying way to give back to your community. Being a fireman is a full-time commitment and if it’s not something you could commit to, there are many other ways to help by offering your time.

A final thought to leave you with: currently the fire department costs the taxpayers approximately $250,000 per year. If volunteerism diminishes and Canonsburg is forced to have a paid fire department, it could cost tax payers approximately $2.5 million.

I am looking forward to seeing you all at events and activities throughout the year. As always, I have an open-door policy, so stop in anytime with concerns, comments or ideas. Confidentiality of anything we talk about is always granted.

Best wishes to every one of you for a prosperous and safe new year.