SLIPPERY ROCK — Although a mayor is in charge of the police department and can cast a tie-breaking council vote, the borough’s new mayor feels his position has an overarching task.

“I think you should promote the community,” said Ron Fodor.

Fodor, 61, took office Jan. 6.

He ran a write-in campaign in the May primary, and appeared on both the Democratic and Republican ballots in the November general election. Ken Harris, the previous mayor who had served since 2002, chose to run for council instead of seeking re-election as mayor.

Fodor also said he wants to be able to show appreciation for volunteers in the community, such as those with the Slippery Rock Volunteer Fire Company, the Feed My Sheep Food Pantry, churches and civic groups.

“They should be recognized,” Fodor said.

He said he wants to improve communications between residents and officials.

“So many people complain that they don’t know what’s going on,” Fodor said.

If a resident complains about something, officials should address it as soon as possible, he added.

Although there can be heated discussions at the council table, Fodor said he feels a good attitude is important.

“I don’t dislike someone because I disagree with them on one issue,” Fodor said.

He noted that, although there can be disagreements among council members, most motions are unanimous decisions.

Fodor also said he would like to promote new businesses in the borough.

“I really think that it’s a great place to have a business,” said Fodor, who used to own a music shop and entertainment business in the borough.

He said he wants to work with outside groups, such as the fire company, surrounding townships, clubs and Slippery Rock University.

“The university makes us so unique (in Butler County),” Fodor said.

A native of Coraopolis, Allegheny County, he moved to the borough in 1976, when he began attending SRU. He stayed after his wife, who he met at SRU, got a job teaching at Slippery Rock Middle School.

For the past 32 years, he has been manager of the Butler County Conservation District, which provides environmental expertise to help property owners deal with land use issues, handles related problems, and is involved with the preservation of agricultural lands.

He has been involved with the community for decades.

Fodor served on borough council for one term in the late 1980s.

He also has served on the zoning hearing board and the Slippery Rock Park board for more than 20 years, and served three years on the planning commission. He said being involved is an important thing for him.

“It helps you understand better the community by going and being part of it and knowing what’s relevant,” Fodor said.

Fodor and his wife have two adult daughters.