Cranberry Twp., Boozel honored for excellence in government
The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development recognized Cranberry Township and Butler County Commissioner Kevin Boozel for exemplary efforts in government for their work in 2021.
The ceremony for the awards was conducted Wednesday morning in Harrisburg and streamed online.
The awards were presented by Kim Bracey, executive director of the Governor's Center for Local Government Services, and Rick Vilello, deputy secretary for community affairs and development for DCED.
"We have the opportunity to highlight the best, most innovative and creative ways local government leaders have come through for their communities," Bracey said. "During these COVID times, we have seen your grit and your strength, and we are happy to salute each and every one of you."
Cranberry Township was recognized for promoting community and economic revitalization through the completion of the MSA Thruway.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Cranberry Township board of supervisors was board chairman Dick Hadley, board member Jon Skorupan and township manager Dan Santoro.
“It’s a partnership that celebrates how you bring people together,” Santoro said in a later interview.
The presenters applauded the cumulative effort of "20 years and thousands of hours of community collaboration“ that included seeking state assistance through grants and loans as well securing a donation of $3.5 million in private land from MSA Safety.
Santoro said UPMC, county officials and others also were instrumental in the collaboration.
“This is a project that was envisioned by the board 25 years ago,” Santoro said. “It’s nice to be recognized across the commonwealth for those types of projects and partnerships.”
Boozel was recognized for his career in government. He was highlighted for his work as a commissioner as well as serving as president of County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.
“It’s humbling for somebody to put you up for an award,” Boozel said. “I just keep doing what I think is right.”
While Boozel was appreciative of the award, he also recognized he only is part of a larger collaborative effort and movement in Butler County. He said especially when COVID-19 hit, he saw opportunities to work with other government agencies and organizations to navigate difficult times.
“It can’t be done alone,” he said. “Everybody has to be there.”
A recorded statement by Gov. Tom Wolf was played before the awards were unveiled.
"From our biggest cities to our smallest townships and boroughs, it's not easy being tasked with leading a community. It's difficult, and it can often be thankless," Wolf said. "I'm proud to work with dedicated local government leaders like you to make life better for all Pennsylvanians from all corners of the state."
Neil Weaver, acting secretary of DCED, also shared words to mark the occassion.
"In any given day, in any given hour, we benefit from the work of local government in countless ways," Weaver said “You are the best of the best.”
