Burgess sworn in as mayor of Washington
A new era began Tuesday in the city of Washington.
JoJo Burgess was sworn in as the new mayor, the first Black man to hold the position in the city.
Burgess was sworn in by District Judge Kevin Cooper Jr., a magistrate from Allegheny County. Holding the Bible was Burgess’ son, A’Shon.
“Years ago you wouldn’t have thought that a kid from Maple Terrace would be sitting up here,” Burgess said.
Burgess was complimentary of his predecessor, Scott Putnam, as he spoke during Tuesday’s reorganization meeting.
“We want to make sure that we pick up and continue the great work Scott Putnam did as mayor,” Burgess said, becoming emotional at times. “Me taking over is not an indication of anything that he did, because he served the city well. We want to make Washington the place to be. Knowing the City Council members that we already have and the people working here in this city, I’m just here to captain the ship that’s already running.”
Burgess said there are many things being discussed to be put into place as he begins his tenure as mayor.
“There are a couple of things going on in the city right now that need some immediate attention,” Burgess said. “We’re going to take care of that first. We’ll implement some changes and different things once we get everything stabilized.”
Also sworn in Tuesday were reelected council members Kenneth Westcott and Joseph Pintola, returning controller Nick Dubina, returning treasurer Anthony Nicolella and new police Chief Steve Devenney.
Devenney replaces Daniel Rush who retired Monday after 22 years of service to the police department and two as chief.
“I am truly blessed to be Mayor Burgess’ nomination,” Devenney said. “I’m just looking forward to continuing the vision that Chief Rush and I started two years ago and to continue to provide the very best service for the residents of the city.”
Devenney, who joined the department in 2005, said there are some things in the works to implement as he takes over the position.
“Little baby steps, little improvements,” he said. “I’m always a big believer in, be a little bit better today than you were yesterday and tomorrow be a little bit better than you are today. If I can stay on that standpoint, it’s onward and upward moving forward.”
Appointments approved Tuesday were:
Westcott – director of accounts and finance;
Pintola – director of streets and public improvements;
Councilman Andrew Callan – director of parks and public buildings;
Councilman Joseph DeThomas – director of public safety;
Dodaro, Matta and Cambest – solicitor;
Harshman CE Group LLC. – engineering firm.