Longtime supervisor Samuel Ward, who has been a fixture in Penn Township for multiple decades, will be challenged for his seat by newcomer Matthew Salina in the May 20 primary election.

Both candidates are running for the same seat on the three-person board that comes with a six-year term.

Ward, the incumbent and current chairman of the board, has been a supervisor since before the start of the 21st century. In addition to his role as supervisor, he has previously worked as a civil engineer and project engineer for four different construction companies.

He also holds the rank of Eagle Scout and serves as executive director of Boy Scouts Troop 53, which is in Penn Township.

“I am uniquely qualified to manage the township’s business and infrastructure development,” Ward said. “My engineering, construction and budget management background provides these conservative business skills. I want to continue managing the township’s business and infrastructure development.”

Some major projects that have taken place in the township in Ward’s current term include a highly sought-after traffic signal upgrade at the intersection of Route 8 and Airport Road, as well as a road realignment at a section of Dodds Road to mitigate flooding.

The last time Ward’s seat was up for election, in 2019, Ward was unopposed in both the primary and general elections and was easily reelected.

Salina is currently employed with a construction company in Evans City, but residents of Penn Township may know him as a volunteer firefighter with the Penn Township Volunteer Fire Department.

“I have decided to run for this position to demonstrate my strong commitment and interest in our community,” Salina said.

Like Ward, Salina also boasts an Eagle Scout rank and he says his experience moving through the ranks in scouting demonstrates that he has what it takes to be a township supervisor.

“Earning the rank of Eagle Scout and volunteering at the Penn Township Fire Company both demonstrate a strong commitment to community service and leadership, which are essential qualities in civic government,” Salina said. “These skills will be critical to my success as a supervisor.”

Ward: “Maintain the Penn Township facilities and administration, including information technology and cybersecurity, geographic information system, new equipment and personnel to better serve the community.

“Provide a well-trained and equipped public works crew to maintain 56 miles of township roads and two parks.

“Provide a well-trained and equipped police force for public safety.

“Maintain the real estate and fire tax at eight mills, which last increased in 2010.

“Continue the Harcrest Park Phase 2A development that has started on the recently purchased area adjacent to the original development along Three Degree Road.

“Replace stormwater infrastructure in older residential areas and township roads.

“Continue to develop relationships with Butler County and neighboring townships for the southern Butler County area.

“Address residents’ concerns as issues arise.”

Salina: “My main goals for the township are to improve infrastructure, particularly by fixing the roads and bringing them up to necessary standards.

“Additionally, I aim to enhance transparency within the township, ensuring residents are informed about ongoing projects, and emphasizing the prioritization of township needs and the development of a strategic plan for the repair and maintenance of equipment and infrastructure.

“Penn Township is a great place to live, and I look forward to continuing to work with residents to enhance our community for years to come.”

Ward: “The major issues are transportation along the Route 8 corridor, safe access at the Route 8 and Church/Dinnerbell Roads intersection, stormwater infrastructure and the Penn Township Volunteer Fire Department.

“Our goals are to improve traffic flow and access along the Route 8 corridor and reduce speeding with continued, strong enforcement; install a new traffic light at the Route 8 and Church/Dinnerbell Roads intersection; continue to replace aging stormwater piping and catch basins on township roads; and seek legislative action to develop ways to attract and train manpower for the fire department.”

Salina: “A lack of transparency and willingness to compromise are significant concerns, as well as controversial ordinances and community engagement.

“I will address these concerns by, implementing regular, open forums and clear communication channels to keep residents informed and involved in decision-making processes; facilitating discussions and negotiations to find balanced solutions that address the concerns of all stakeholders; and developing comprehensive plans that prioritize community needs while promoting sustainable growth and fiscal responsibility.”

Ward: “Recreational facilities, including four golf courses, the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, and two parks — approximately 66 acres.

“Strong zoning controls growth and maintains the rural atmosphere.

“A central commercial zone along the Route 8 corridor.

“An annual Community Day event on the third Saturday of August.”

Salina: “Penn Township offers residents the unique opportunity to enjoy a rural lifestyle while benefiting from urban amenities within a convenient driving distance.

“Our strong faith-based community encompasses a diverse range of religious affiliations, complemented by local restaurants, businesses, walking and hiking trails, and private schools.

“The Pittsburgh-Butler Regional Airport hosts an Allegheny Health Network air ambulance helicopter, ready to provide emergency support when needed.

“While these attributes contribute to Penn Township's distinctiveness, it is the people who truly make it special. Our community is filled with hardworking, dedicated individuals who consistently step up to assist neighbors and friends.”

Ward: “One of my goals is to follow the 2024 10-year Penn Township Comprehensive update to control development and maintain our community's rural character.”

Salina: “I have chosen the slogan ‘Strong Foundations, Strong Communities’ to emphasize my commitment to reinforcing the strong foundations established in Penn Township.

“While future development is essential for our area's continued prosperity, fostering strong community connections with local business owners and residents will remain a top priority.

“It is crucial that stakeholders have the opportunity to offer suggestions and actively participate in the growth of our community.”

More election coverage can be found here.